Slips, trips and falls

One of the leading causes of injuries in the workplace is attributable to the classification Slip, Trip and Fall.

Injuries resulting from these can be as simple as a loss of traction and a stumble to multiple fractures.

Workforce on Tap staff have sustained two fractured bones in STF (Slip Trip Fall) events in 2011.

A slip is where footing is lost due to slippery surfaces and or boot or shoe condition or contamination. The result of a slip may be muscle strain or impact with surrounding objects causing injury.

A trip is a stumble or loss of balance that results in similar outcomes to a slip.

A fall may come about by a trip or a slip but results in some or all of the body making contact with the ground or work surface. This is by far the most severe outcome in terms of injury outcomes. Fractures, contusions and lacerations may result and in some cases falling from a height increases the severity of the outcome.

So to assist in prevention report and/or fix conditions where a STF may occur.

This could be uneven or slippery ground or surfaces or wet surfaces.

Don’t rush when using stairs and always hold on to the handrail.

Clean spills up quickly and take care in reduced lighting situations.

Remember - All injuries are preventable: you have the ability and the responsibility to make suggestions for improvements.

Kevin Bassett

Corporate Safety Manager