CART Necessity Of Slips, Trips And Falls Training In Today's Workplaces
Slips, Trips and Falls Training for Today's Workplaces
Slips, trips, and falls are the most common causes of workplace accidents, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that slips and trips are responsible for, on average:
- Over a third of all reported major injuries.
- 20% of over-3-day injuries to employees.
- 50% of all reported accidents to members of the public happen in workplaces.
As an employer, it's not just about training your staff to walk in a straight line without falling over. It's about giving them the knowledge of what is potentially dangerous and how to avoid and report hazards. This proactive approach not only significantly reduces accident rates but also underscores the importance of each staff member's role in creating a safer work environment.
A priority for preventing incidents is to implement slips, trips, and falls training for all individuals in the workplace. Slips, trips, and falls training emphasises the importance of maintaining clear, well-lit, and contaminant-free walkways designated for foot traffic.
It also promotes safe floor coverings, which must be level, correctly fitted, and maintained to minimise the risk of hazards. The choice of flooring materials is also discussed, teaching that lighter colours can create a clear contrast against any objects placed on the floor, making potential hazards more visible. Regular inspections and maintenance of flooring surfaces are shown to be important, as when they remain in good condition, they reduce risk and improve safety for all.
Slips, trips, and falls training emphasises that walkways should be wide enough to accommodate the expected foot traffic, and stairs must have steps and risers that are consistent and uniform in size. Stair nosings should be highlighted where necessary, and handrails should be secure and fitted at the correct height.
The technical definition of a slip is characterised by insufficient friction between footwear and the walking surface, resulting in the foot sliding away from an individual's centre of gravity. This phenomenon can often be colloquially referred to as "stepping on something slippery." The most prevalent cause of slips is the presence of spills or other forms of contamination on the floor, such as water, oil, or food substances, which significantly reduce traction.
Tripping, on the other hand, occurs when an individual's foot unexpectedly comes into contact with an obstacle, such as a loose carpet, an uneven surface, or an object left in a pathway. This contact disrupts their natural gait and can cause them to stumble. The brain anticipates that each step will be of a certain length and rhythm; thus, when a step is abruptly shortened due to an unexpected obstruction, the body struggles to adjust quickly enough for the subsequent movements. This adjustment delay can result in a loss of balance and control, heightening the risk of a fall.
Falls frequently stem from either slips or trips and can range in severity from minor bruises to serious injuries such as fractures or concussions. The consequences of such incidents are not only physically damaging but can also lead to significant emotional distress and loss of productivity.
If only the solution to preventing these accidents were as straightforward as ensuring floor surfaces are appropriately textured to provide adequate grip and eliminating potential tripping hazards. If this were indeed the case, it is estimated that we could avert up to 180,000 workplace accidents annually.
Regrettably, the root causes of slips, trips, and falls are multifaceted and often interwoven with various environmental and personal factors. These can include inadequate lighting that obscures potential hazards, loose or broken handrails that fail to provide support, cluttered walking areas, or even individual factors such as footwear choice, physical condition, or attentiveness. Enrolling staff in slips, trips, and falls training will go a long way in addressing these issues and raising staff awareness of potential dangers in the workplace.
Slips, Trips and Falls Training to Identify Workplace Hazards include the following:
- Slippery Surfaces: Spills, leaks, and wet floors—whether caused by cleaning, weather conditions, or accidental occurrences—can significantly increase the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, accumulated dust, grease, or loose debris can create hazardous conditions that may go unnoticed until it’s too late. It is essential to promptly address any spills and maintain a rigorous cleaning schedule to minimise these risks.
- Uneven Surfaces: Flooring that is damaged, worn, or improperly installed can lead to uneven surfaces that pose a danger to individuals walking on them. Loose mats, carpets, and abrupt changes in floor levels—such as steps or ramps—can create significant tripping hazards. Regular inspections and timely repairs are required to ensure surfaces are even and safe.
- Cluttered Walkways: Walkways obstructed by objects such as boxes, power cords, tools, or equipment not only impede movement but also pose tripping risks. Keeping walkways clear and organised is important for safety. Establishing designated areas for storage and ensuring that pathways are free of obstruction can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.
- Poor Lighting: Inadequate or poorly positioned lighting can obscure potential hazards, making it challenging to navigate spaces safely. Dimly lit areas can cause individuals to miss obstacles or changes in terrain, increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Ensuring sufficient lighting, particularly in high-traffic or low-visibility areas, is paramount for safety.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper grip or are not suitable for the specific work environment can significantly contribute to slips and falls. Footwear should be selected based on the workplace conditions, with particular attention to slip-resistant soles, supportive structures, and suitable materials. Employers should encourage the use of adequate footwear to promote safety.
- Other Hazards: Additional risks can arise from various sources, such as trailing electrical cables, low-level drawers that can be inadvertently bumped into, or poorly maintained ladders that may not support safe usage. Regular assessments of workplace equipment and conditions are crucial for identifying and mitigating these hazards effectively. Ensuring all workplace areas are designed thoughtfully and maintained diligently promotes a safer environment for everyone.
Some Preventive Measures Include
- Maintaining Walkways: Ensure that all floors and walkways are consistently clean, dry, and free from obstructions and clutter. Regular maintenance routines should be established to uphold these conditions throughout the work environment.
- Addressing Spills Immediately: Implement a standard operating procedure for promptly cleaning up spills. Employees should be trained to quickly and effectively address any liquid leaks or spills, using appropriate cleaning agents and materials. Additionally, always place clear and visible warning signs in wet areas to alert others to potential hazards.
- Securing Mats and Rugs: Ensure that all mats and rugs are laid flat without any creases and are correctly positioned to minimise tripping hazards. Use non-slip backing or adhesive if necessary, and conduct frequent evaluations to ensure they remain secure and in good condition.
- Providing Adequate Lighting: Ensure all work areas are well-lit, particularly in transition zones, hallways, and staircases. Utilise bright, energy-efficient lighting solutions and consider motion-sensor lights in less-trafficked areas to enhance visibility and safety after hours.
- Encouraging Proper Footwear: Actively promote the use of slip-resistant, supportive footwear tailored to the specific hazards of the workplace. Provide guidelines on selecting appropriate shoes and consider offering incentives for employees who adhere to the footwear policy.
- Training Employees: Develop a comprehensive training program that focuses on safe work practices, hazard recognition, and emergency response procedures. Regularly schedule training sessions, refresher courses, and safety drills to keep safety at the forefront of all employees' minds.
- Regularly Inspecting: Establish a regular inspection schedule to assess all areas of the workplace for potential hazards. Document findings, address any issues immediately, and maintain records of inspections to ensure that safety standards continuously improve and evolve in alignment with best practices.
