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Infographic showing how to avoid slips & falls

This article is from the November 2015 issue of the IC Safety newsletter. To view the full issue, visit the IC Safety archive.

While slips and falls are typically associated with winter conditions, such as ice and snow, they can happen any time of the year, in any weather condition. Even a small spot of water on smooth concrete is as slippery as walking on ice. Though they may seem like minor incidents, slips and falls can escalate into very serious injuries that can keep you off the road and cost you a significant amount of money.

One slip can have major consequences

After making a delivery, a 33-year-old driver was on his way back to the truck when he slipped on a water spot, twisted his left ankle and chipped the bone. The driver was off work for two months and the injury cost a total of $19,589 in doctor visits, physical therapy, prescriptions and other expenses.

Simple tips to avoid slips

Before peak delivery season begins, it's important to train your drivers and new hires on how to reduce the risk of slips and falls by practicing careful behavior and staying on top of important routine maintenance.

Practice careful behavior

  • Never run or walk fast. Friction is reduced at a hurried pace, making a slip more likely.
  • Use a sturdy stepstool when climbing or reaching high places.
  • Inspect all surfaces before walking on them. It’s always important to look for obstructions and slick spots that may interfere with walking safely.
  • Follow proper lifting and carrying techniques.
  • Always use three points of contact when entering and exiting a vehicle.
  • Wear appropriate slip-resistant shoes. Not all synthetic soles are slip-resistant. Periodically check the condition of the soles and replace them as they wear down. Worn soles lose their slip-resistant quality.

Stay on top of routine maintenance

  • Keep all walking areas clean and clear of clutter. Remove leaves, snow and debris from outdoor walkways.
  • Periodically check the condition of outdoor walkways and steps, repairing as necessary.
  • Maintain good lighting on both indoor and outdoor walking areas.
  • Secure electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas.
  • Install handrails on all stairways.
  • Clean up spills immediately.
  • Watch for unsafe walking and working surfaces at locations not under your control.

Watch our Safety Solutions video “Preventing Slips & Falls” to see examples of techniques that will help you stay on your feet.

  • Categorized in:
  • Dock & Warehouse Safety
  • Slips & Falls
  • Workplace Safety
  • Injury Prevention
  • Transportation Safety