SLIPS, TRIPS AND SAME LEVEL FALLS
Hello … welcome to another Ministry of Labour podcast on MOL Radio.
This week, on our health and safety segment, we are going to look at slips, trips and same level falls.
Slips, trips and same level falls can occur in any workplace.
They are among the leading causes of workplace lost-time injury in Ontario - accounting for nearly 20 per cent of all lost-time injuries.
Preventing such injuries should be a key goal of every workplace health and safety program.
Some of the most common hazards causing slips, trips and same level falls are:
• Slippery surfaces
• Seasonal trip hazards such as snow and ice
• Spills of wet or dry substances
• Changes of level and slopes of walkways
• Unsecured mats
Slips, trips and same level falls can also be caused by:
• Debris and items stored in pedestrian walkways
• Trailing cables in pedestrian walkways
• Unsuitable footwear
• Poor lighting
• Temporary removal of a guardrail or handrail to carry out maintenance or repair
• Poor material handling practices
• Running instead of walking
These are just some of the common hazards - there are many others.
When a hazard has been identified, all employers must take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances to protect workers, either by removing the hazard, or by controlling it.
Some methods for controlling hazards leading to slips, trips and same level falls include:
• Using a suitable type of flooring
• Installing ramps or handrails where a surface is sloping
• Keeping surfaces free of obstructions or holes
• Keeping drainage areas free
• Adjusting lighting levels or using non-glare lighting
• Blocking pedestrian access when a guardrail or handrail has been removed while repairs or maintenance are taking place
• Applying recommended ergonomic practices when tasks require excessive or repetitive pushing or pulling of objects or materials, or when a worker's line of sight is obstructed.
You should also:
• Ensure that equipment such as mops or shovels are available for front-line workers
• Use signage to warn workers of hazards
• Ensure that there is sufficient space for easy movement
• Minimize environmental effects - for example, block blowing wind to prevent wet surfaces or icing at entranceways.
Other tactics could include:
• Establishing procedures for the safe clean up of spills, prompt removal of debris, snow and ice, and
• Making sure that employees use appropriate footwear such as boots and shoes with anti-slip soles when required.
These are just a few ways to prevent slips, trips and same level falls in the workplace.
For more information and tips, go to Ontario.ca - forward slash - safe at work Ontario - all one word.
That's Ontario.ca - forward slash - safe at work Ontario - all one word.
Remember, a safe and healthy workplace is more productive.
And, it's required by law.
That's it for this week's MOL Radio segment on health and safety.
Thank you for listening.