Friday, May 3, 2019

Falling Down

Slips, trips, and falls are a top source of injury. Here are some ways to prevent them.

No matter what industry you work in, slips, trips, and falls are one of the top sources of injury. In 2017, 48,348 workers were injured and 60 were killed in falls. That’s why the Ontario Ministry of Labour is holding its second annual Falls Awareness week from May 6–10, 2019, to remind us all of the importance of preventing falls.

In some industries, such as construction, the main focus is on preventing falls from heights. The new Working from Heights training program is proving to be effective in decreasing the number of injuries and deaths due to falls from heights.

But what about same-level falls? These are responsible for the majority of fall-related lost-time injuries. Stepping out of a truck cab the wrong way, tripping over cleaning supplies, or slipping on a wet or icy surface. Even seemingly minor falls can have devastating consequences, including weeks off work, months of physiotherapy, and a lifetime of pain.

What can you do to reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls?

1. If you work at heights and are exposed to a fall hazard, you must take Working at Heights training and refresh the training every three years

2. Use ladders safely and properly

3. Keep your work area clean, tidy, and free of tripping hazards

4. Ensure power cords are fastened down or are out of the way

5. Fasten loose rugs and floor coverings

6. Wipe up spills and set out caution signs around wet floors

7. Keep surfaces free of ice in the winter

8. Wear appropriate footwear with good grip

9. Use handrails when ascending or descending steps

10. Inform your supervisor or health and safety representative of slip, trip, or fall hazards

During Falls Awareness week, let’s refocus our attention on the importance of preventing falls. If you are a supervisor, take 15-30 minutes to hold a safety talk about fall prevention and working safely at heights. For all workers, look for hazards and ways to mitigate them. If you need Working at Height training or refresher training, check out our training schedule.

Resources

Prevent slips, trips, and falls

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety

Ministry of Labour

Prevent falls from heights

IHSA

IHSA Safety Talks

Falling Down

Resources

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