The Comp Alliance has insured municipal employees for workers’ compensation injuries since 1994. Every year since then, the leading cause of loss has been slips, trips, and falls. There are numerous situations in which they occur, from the office to the garage, and even in the field. Slips, trips, and falls can happen in parking lots, when getting in and out of vehicles, climbing or descending ladders and stairs, walking on sidewalks, or moving furniture. While the circumstances vary, the causes of these injuries come down to five causes:
- Conditions: Cracks in sidewalks, parking lot potholes, uneven floors, and protruding door thresholds are all safety hazards that cause trip and fall injuries.
- Weather: With fall comes wet weather and the collection of leaf debris, creating slick surfaces. Winter brings black ice and snow. Be aware of the weather and take precautions. Additionally, establish a reporting process for black ice in parking lots and building entrances so it can be addressed.
- Footwear: Employees should wear appropriate footwear for the environment. Shoes or boots with good gripping soles are best. Avoid dangerous footwear like Crocs and high heels during slick conditions, as they provide very little friction adherence. Lastly, this may seem simple, but ensure shoelaces are tied and not too long.
- General Clumsiness: Let’s face it, occasionally we trip over our own feet. To avoid embarrassment and injury, take your time, especially in slick or dangerous conditions. Slow down when carrying items, and plan your route. Remove hazards that you might encounter, like cords or debris on the floor. Good housekeeping can help prevent this.
- Situational Awareness: Situational awareness is the ability to identify a work task and complete it in the safest and most effective manner possible. When traversing any terrain, whether a wet parking lot, uneven sidewalk, stairs, ladder, or entering or exiting a vehicle, situational awareness can help prevent slip, trip, and fall injuries. Be aware of your surroundings, identify hazards, and do your very best to avoid them.
Avoiding slip, trip, and fall injuries can be challenging; however, maintaining situational awareness, wearing proper footwear, and promptly reporting hazards can significantly reduce the potential for these common workplace injuries.