SGTT03 - SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS
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Why do they occur?

• Most injuries from slips, trips and falls occur because of poor housekeeping.

• Many items left on the ground, such as coiled cables, hand tools, lengths of pipe or timber, will trip someone if not deposited in a safe position.

• Slip substances, such as oils and greases, will form a slip hazard if not immediately cleaned up.

• General debris, such as brick and block fragments can quickly accumulate and form a tripping hazard if not cleaned up as it is created.

• Trailing cables are another frequent cause of tripping.

• Mud left on the rungs of a ladder by the previous user will represent a slipping and falling hazard for the next person.

• Reduced levels of natural light, for example during the winter afternoons, can easily increase the tripping hazards if adequate access lighting is not provided. Tools, equipment and materials that are visible if full daylight may be hidden in semi – darkness.

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What can you do in your job to reduce tripping hazards?

• Clear up waste materials as you create them. Lightweight waste should be bagged or bundled, and nails removed from waste timber.

• Do not leave tools, equipment or unused materials lying about on the floor.

• If you are using substances which could possibly spill, ensure that you have a means of effectively cleaning up the spillage.

• As far as possible, route cables for power tools above head height, if cables have to be routed at floor level, try to avoid pedestrian walkways.

• If the site is muddy, scrape mud off your boots before climbing ladders or walking anywhere else where it might be a danger to others.

• Be aware of the increased risks of tripping as the level of natural light fades: ensure that all tool, equipment and materials are stored in a safe location.​

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REMEMBER: TIDY UP AS YOU GO, YOUR CARELESSNESS COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES TO SOMEONE ELSE.

 

Avoiding Slips, Trips and Falls

Slips, trips and falls occur every day. The extent of injuries and their recurrence can be minimized through proper safety knowledge and attitudes. Practice safety, don't learn it through experience. There are various ways to suffer slips and falls while working. You can slip and lose your balance, you can trip over objects left in your walkway, or you can simply fall from an elevated position above the ground.

 

Slips

Slips can be caused by wet surfaces, spills, or weather hazards like ice or snow. Slips are more likely to occur when you hurry or run, wear the wrong kind of shoes, or don’t pay attention to where you’re walking. To avoid slips, be on the lookout for foreign substances on the floors. Watch for deposits of water, food, grease, oil, sawdust, soap, or debris. Even small quantities are enough to make you fall. When entering a building from the outdoors clean your footwear thoroughly. Snowy and rainy weather requires that you clean off the soles of your shoes. Don't go too fast, walk safely, and avoid changing directions too sharply.

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Trips

Trips occur whenever your foot hits an object and you are moving with enough momentum to be thrown off balance. Rubbish, unused materials, any object left in the aisles or other areas designed for pedestrian traffic invites falls. Extension cords, tools, trolleys, and other items should be removed or properly barricaded off. Report/remove any equipment or supplies that are left in walkways. Keep passageways clear of debris. Walk where you're supposed to walk. Short cuts through machine areas invite accidents. Concentrate on where you are going, horseplay and inattention leaves you vulnerable to unsafe conditions.

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Falls

The worst falls are from elevated positions like ladders and scaffolding. They result in serious injuries and death. Learn and practice ladder safety and the proper use of scaffolding. Hold on to handrails when using stairs or ramps. They are there to protect you should a fall occur. If you're carrying a heavy load which hampers your ability to go up or come down stairs, use the lift, or find help! When climbing, use a ladder of proper length that is in good condition. Keep it placed on a firm surface. Do not climb a ladder placed on machinery, stock or boxes. Keep the ladder's base 1 foot away from the wall for every 4 feet of height. Don't over-reach. Always have control of your balance when working from a ladder. Never climb a ladder with your hands full, and always carry tools in proper carrying devices. When using a scaffold, be sure it is assembled according to the manufacturer's specifications. Check carefully for defects. Standing and working planks should be level and clean. Use toe-boards to prevent tools from falling and workers from slipping.