Trip Hazards Do’s and Don’ts

The national statistics on injuries and deaths from workplace slips, trips, and falls are disturbing…

One reason that falls are so common is that there are hazards everywhere. Employees can slip, trip, or fall in production areas, in offices, on stairwells, from ladders, off loading docks–and other places specific to your workplace…

Eliminate Trip Hazards
Many fall injuries occur on level ground when people trip over unexpected objects in their path. Help eliminate trip hazards by training employees to follow these do’s and don’ts.

Do:

• Keep work areas neat and tidy, putting tools, materials, and other items away after use.
• Pick up items off the floor, even if they didn’t put them there.
• Step over or around obstructions, not on them.
• Walk slowly and change directions slowly, especially when carrying a load.
• Watch for changes in floor level—such as a few steps or a ramp up or down.
• Report lighting problems, such as burned-out bulbs, to maintenance right away.
• Use a flashlight if they need more light leaving the facility in the dark.

Don’t:

• Don’t leave boxes, bags, tools, or other materials on the floor.
• Don’t block walkways with hand trucks, equipment, or materials.
• Don’t leave cords or cables in walkways.
• Don’t place anything on stairs.
• Don’t leave drawers open.