Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls

5 Tips to Prevent
SLIPS, TRIPS, & FALLS

Infographic Transcription

In the workplace, slip, trip, and fall hazards put workers’ safety at risk and cost employers nearly $70 billion a year in workers’ compensation claims, regulatory fines, productivity, and other administrative expenses. Organizations that take proper safety precautions can keep workers safe and facilities in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Slips, trips, and falls can be prevented by taking certain measures to keep work areas organized and walkways clean from debris and clutter.

Definitions

SLIPS
happen when there is insecure footing resulting in a loss of balance.

TRIPS
happen when there is a loss of balance resulting from contact with an object.

FALLS
happen when there is a failed or missing support. Slips and trips can lead to falls, which can happen on the same level or from one to another.

Statistics

In 2022
865 work fatalities
from slips, trips, & falls
▲ up 1.8% from 2021

In 2023, fall protection general requirements resulted in
7,188 violations
#1 on OSHA’s Top 10 list since 2011

Fall protection training requirements resulted in
2,109 violations
#8 on OSHA’s Top 10 list

From 2021 to 2022
450,540 workers missed one or more days of work from falls

2022
700 worker fatalities from falls
to lower levels

In 2016, 20,520 work injuries
from ice, sleet, or snow required at least one day away from work

144
Deaths were due to falls on the same level in 2022

From 2011–2016
836 fatal injuries from falls from ladders

1 in 6 lost-time work injuries are from slips, trips, & falls

Slips, trips, & falls account for between 12% & 15% of workers’ compensation claims

Slip, trip, & fall injuries cost employers approx. $20,000 per incident

These injuries result in an average of 11 days away from work

From 2011–2022
fatal work-related falls to a lower level increased 52.7%

55%
slip, trip, & fall injuries are due to slippery conditions

70% of all fatal falls occurred within companies with 10 or fewer employees

Fatal Falls to a Lower Level (chart)
2018: 321
2019: 401
2020: 353
2021: 379
2022: 397

Common Causes of Slips, Trips, & Falls

• Floor Contamination
• Object Obstructing Walkways
• Floor Irregularities & Damage
• Lighting Inadequacies
• Weather Conditions
• Stairs & Railings
• Step Stools & Ladders
• Floor Mats & Runners
• Unprotected Edges & Openings

Top 5 Prevention Tips

(Graphic text: CAUTION)

1. 5S System
   Maintain good housekeeping and organization of tools and equipment in workspaces and walkways to prevent injuries. Implement the 5S System: Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain.
2. Floor Marking
   Guide workers through the workspace and warn pedestrians of hazards. Use floor marking, wayfinding, and safety tape throughout the workplace.
3. Safety Signs & Labels
   Inform workers of contaminated areas, mark tools and equipment for storage, and track cleanliness in the workplace.
4. Spill Containment
   Clean up areas when spills occur to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Keep spill control and containment products on-hand, ready for use.
5. Facility Lighting
   Improve pathway and exit visibility to help workers avoid slip, trip, and fall hazards. In an emergency, proper lighting can guide workers to safety.

DuraLabel

Protect Your Workers and Prevent Costly Accidents
Download your FREE GUIDE to Preventing Slips, Trips, & Falls
DuraLabel.info/slips-trips-falls
888.326.9244