8 Ways Employers Can Prevent Slips, Trips, & Falls in the Workplace

In this article, we’ll discuss ways that employers can help keep their employees safe and prevent slips, trips, and falls in the workplace.

It’s no secret that slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common workplace accidents. In fact, according to recent research, these types of accidents cost businesses more than $70 billion a year. In this article, we’ll discuss ways that employers can help keep their employees safe and prevent slips, trips, and falls in the workplace.

Appropriate Training

One of the best ways to prevent slips, trips, and falls is to provide employees with appropriate training. Employees should be trained on how to identify potential hazards in their work area and how to navigate around those hazards safely. They should also be trained on how to properly use the safety equipment that is provided to them.

Signs and Warnings

Another way to prevent slips, trips, and falls is to ensure that all potential hazards are properly marked. Signs and warnings can be used to indicate where hazardous areas are, where to walk, and where to avoid walking. They can also be used to mark the location of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits.

Proper Lighting

Poor lighting is one of the leading causes of slips, trips, and falls. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that all areas of the workplace are well-lit, especially those where employees are likely to walk.

Safety Policies

Employers can also help prevent slips, trips, and falls by instituting a safe work policy. This includes making sure that employees are aware of the dangers associated with slips, trips, and falls and what they can do to avoid them. Employees should also be trained on how to properly use equipment and perform their duties in a safe manner.

Safety Equipment

In addition to instituting a safe work policy, employers can also help prevent slips, trips, and falls by providing the appropriate safety equipment. We’re talking everything from non-slip mats, slip-resistant shoes, goggles, or other protective eyewear. Employees should be made aware of which pieces of safety equipment are required for their job and should be trained on how to use them properly.

Cleaning and Maintenance

It’s important to keep the workplace clean and free of debris. For example, all spills should be cleaned up immediately, and all floor surfaces should be free of debris. In addition, regular maintenance of floors, stairs, and other surfaces can help reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls.

Supervision

Employers should generally provide adequate supervision of their employees. This means ensuring that there is someone available to help with tasks that may be hazardous and that employees are following all safety procedures.

Regular Safety Meetings

Regular safety meetings should generally be held to discuss new or updated safety procedures. This allows employees to ask questions and raise any concerns they may have.

Hire Our Workers Comp Attorneys

Despite taking all the necessary precautions, work-related accidents can still happen. If you or a worker you know has been injured at work, contact The Law Offices of James. M. Hoffman today for a free consultation. Our experienced St. Louis workers’ compensation attorneys can evaluate your case for free and fight to protect your legal rights after a work-related injury.