September 23 – 29, 2019, is recognized as Fall Prevention Week.
Almost one in every five work-related injuries results from a slip, trip or fall. In 2016, the National Safety Council reports that 697 workers died in falls to a lower level, and 48,060 were injured badly enough to require time off of work.
A worker doesn’t have to fall from a high level to suffer fatal injuries; 134 workers were killed in falls on the same level in 2016, according to Injury Facts. Construction workers are most at risk for fatal falls from height – more than seven times the rate of other industries – but falls can happen anywhere, even at a “desk job.”
The good news is that falls are preventable.
VRSA Senior Safety Consultant Fonda Craig tested Slip Simulator Training from Industrial Biodynamics, which places individuals on a safe, controlled training simulator that allows them to experience what it feels like to walk on a surface that is more slippery than ice. They then learned techniques to improve stability and reduce their risk of falling.
https://vimeo.com/362313100
Additional tips to prevent slips, trips and falls in the workplace include:
• Keep floors and surfaces clear of slippery substances or clutter;
• Keep electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas;
• Install handrails on stairways;
• Wear sensible footwear;
• Maintain proper lighting inside and out;
• Always use a ladder or step stool – never stand on chairs or tables;
• Practice proper ladder safety;
• Make sure you can see over and around any load you are carrying;
• Apply non-slip surfacing to areas recognized as hazardous; and
• Paint edges where elevation changes occur with caution yellow paint.
For more information visit our website at: www.vrsa.us. There you will find a number of training materials including videos, online courses, recorded webinars and more to help train employees on the importance of preventing slips, trips and falls.