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Proactive Steps to Identify and Reduce Slips, Trips and Falls

• Sep 10, 2024

• Lastly, for any area that cannot avoid being wet, a gritted texture can be applied to help add traction. The gritted texture can be used in many ways: as a painted surface, a hard fiberglass sheet that can be applied to walkways or stair treads or even an anti-fatigue mat for stationary work. It is important to note that not all gritted textures are created equal. So select a strong material that will handle the worst-case conditions. Even after selecting the most suitable grit and application style, continually inspect and maintain the surfaces. There is a use life for gritted textures and many products out in the field have been in use long past their effectiveness. Various scientific tests can be performed to determine if the gritted surface needs to be replaced, but these are expensive and should be reserved for when other practical tests have been exhausted. A good rule of thumb is to look for three indicators that can be checked during routine inspections to help assess the surface. First, look for noticeably worn spots, which usually will be where traffic is most frequent. Next, lightly feel the area where traffic is high and compare it to a section not frequently traveled. Lastly, if dirt and debris are noticeable on the surface and cannot be removed even after cleaning, this is a sign the gritted surface is worn. If one or more of these indicators are found, it may be a good time to invest in experimental testing or simply make the determination to revamp the textured area.

Uneven Floors

Everyone has experienced a time when they were walking along a sidewalk, about to enter a store and tripped due to a raised portion of the sidewalk. Uneven floors are not only an exterior problem but also an interior one. An uneven surface can be defined as a variation of quarter-inch or more on a walking/working surface. Some areas where this hazard may be present include sidewalks, inside where the floor has been damaged or transition areas where one floor is raised from another without a threshold. These areas can be addressed by ensuring that all entrances have proper transitions, all damaged floors are repaired, and all sidewalks are on an even plane. However, these repairs are not always feasible as they are costly and may cause downtime at a facility. In the meantime, high-visibility floor tape and paint may be used to help indicate possible trip hazards. Additionally, controlling the flow of traffic to less hazardous areas via a secondary door or to an area with an even floor surface can be helpful. During routine inspections, follow the flow of your employees’ traffic patterns and attempt to walk in various patterns. For example, try shuffling feet or taking long strides to help identify possible hazards that might be missed with your normal walking patterns. If tape and paint are used for indication, ensure that they are routinely inspected for wear. Another option is to get employees involved by offering incentives to help identify and report these trip hazards. Not only will the equivalent of many “mini-inspections” be performed, but it will also gain perspective and foster a safety-oriented workplace.

In conclusion, addressing the risk of slips, trips and falls in any workplace environment — whether in the front-facing areas or back-of-house operations — requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. By identifying hazards and implementing targeted measures, such as repairing leaky machinery, preparing for weather conditions, applying gritted textures and maintaining clear walkways, organizations can significantly reduce the occurrence of these incidents. This not only helps in preventing injuries and avoiding substantial financial losses due to fines and workers’ compensation claims, but also fosters a culture of safety and responsibility among employees. A proactive mindset, supported by regular inspections and employee involvement, is crucial for creating a safer and more productive workplace.

This article originally appeared in the September 2024 issue of Occupational Health & Safety.