By Celly Services Inc. BACKGROUND Workplace falls are some of the most common causes of injuries and fatalities in the workplace. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls account for about 15% of all accidental deaths and 25% of all nonfatal workplace injuries in the United States. The consequences of workplace falls can be devastating and expensive. Employees may suffer from physical pain, emotional trauma, disability or death, and this may have a chilling effect on the workplace environment. Slips Slips occur when there is little to no traction between the footwear and the walking surface. Since friction is not adequate to keep feet from slipping, a person can lose their balance. For example, a mechanic may slip on fluids from the car they are working on. Trips Trips happen when a person’s foot hits an object or missteps on an uneven surface. This can disrupt a person’s balance and make them lose their footing. For example, a detailer may trip on a hose lying on the ground. Falls Falls can happen to anyone when they stumble and fall too far off their center of balance. For example, an employee may fall from a ladder while replacing a light bulb. According to OSHA, falls can be classified into two types: 1. Fall at the same level. It occurs on the same working surface. 2. Fall to a lower level. It takes place below a person’s working surface, common when working at heights. Note: OSHA requires that fall protection be provided at elevations of 4 feet in general industry workplaces. In California, fall protection is required at a height of 30 inches or more in general industry workplaces. Cal/OSHA regulations require that employers must provide fall protection systems for employees working at the heights previously stated. Preventing SLIPS, PREVENTION STRATEGIES It is essential to prevent workplace falls by following effective safety measures and practices. Here are some good practices to minimize the risk of slips, trips and falls in the workplace. Risk Assessment Identify and eliminate any potential hazards in the work environment (i.e. wet floors, uneven surfaces, clutter, loose wires or poor lighting). Be aware of any signs, barriers or guards put in place to warn employees of any remaining hazards. Proper Equipment Use appropriate equipment for the task and the height. Ensure that the equipment is in good condition and meets the safety standards. Inspect and maintain the equipment regularly and notify your manager of any damaged or defective parts. This includes appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles. Training Become educated on the risks and consequences of falls and the best practices to avoid them. Seek instruction on how to use the equipment safely and correctly. Older adults are at greater risks of falling as balance and vision decline with age. Review emergency procedures in case of a fall incident and be familiar with where rescue and first aid equipment are available. Culture and Communication Report any hazards or incidents to your manager and suggest any improvements. Establish clear communication channels for reporting and addressing safety concerns. Review and Update Evaluate the effectiveness of the IIPP periodically. Make any necessary adjustments. Give feedback to your supervisor or manager so that they can update the fall prevention program. The best advice for avoiding workplace hazards is to always be aware of your surroundings. REC is a good three-step method to prevent slips, trips and falls in the workplace. Recognize the Hazard Recognize and identify the hazard that could lead to slips, trips and falls and report it to your manager. Evaluate the Hazard Evaluate the hazard and determine what level of risk it presents. Control the Hazard Follow safety procedures, use the proper equipment to control hazards and report them to your manager. 24 SAN DIEGO DEALER
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