Week Four (June 21-30) of National Safety Month, a time to re-evaluate safety procedures to prevent injuries by reconnecting to safety initiatives, focuses on preventing slips, trips and falls.
This week’s goal is to reduce common workplace and home hazards with targeted prevention resources.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, slips, trips and falls were the second leading cause of workplace death in 2024 and the third leading cause of workplace injuries resulting in days away from work from 2023-2024.
However, the National Safety Council says Falls are 100% Preventable.
Preventing these types of accidents means preparing in advance and addressing the human factor. Workers should be shown how to safely use tools and equipment, what safety equipment must be worn or used (and how to wear it), proper footwear and why it is necessary, and how and why working surfaces must be kept in clean, orderly and sanitary conditions.
Some ways to diminish or eliminate slips, trips and falls include:
- Eliminate tripping hazards by keeping aisles, hallways and stairs free of clutter or loose cables and secure cords with covers.
- Manage spills by immediately cleaning up water or other liquid and block off wet areas with “wet floor” fall prevention signs.
- Require employees to wear slip-resistant footwear.
- Improve traction with abrasive floor coverings or non-slip mats.
- Ensure workspaces and stairwells are well-lit, replace burned-out bulbs and move obstacles blocking light fixtures.
Preventing slips, trips and falls and supporting workplace safety is a year-round and continuous endeavor that must be supported, embraced and emphasized by leaders. Additional information can be found at https://www.osha.gov/stop-falls.
For more ways to participate in National Safety Month, go to https://www.nsc.org.
To learn about the various signage and safety equipment United Tool and Fastener offers, please contact a UT&F showroom in Houston at 713-692-2323; in San Antonio at 210-495-8665; or College Station at 979-731-8665.
