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Key Preventive Measures for Slips, Trips and Falls (STFs)

STFs can happen due to various factors, including wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, cluttered walkways, loose cables, and improper footwear. While some of these factors may seem minor, they can pose serious risks to employees, visitors, and customers if not addressed effectively. Preventive measures are crucial for businesses to mitigate the risk of slips, trips, and falls and create a safer work environment. Implementing a comprehensive safety program focused on identifying hazards and implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of such incidents. Here are some key preventive measures that businesses can take:

1. Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections of the workplace to identify potential hazards such as uneven floors, loose tiles, spills, or obstacles in walkways. Promptly address any issues through proper maintenance and repairs.
2. Slip-Resistant Flooring: Install slip-resistant flooring materials in areas prone to spills or moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. These surfaces provide better traction, reducing the risk of slips.
3. Good Housekeeping Practices: Encourage good housekeeping practices to keep work areas clean and clutter-free. Promptly clean up spills, leaks, or debris to prevent slip hazards.
4. Proper Signage: Use clear signage to alert employees and visitors of potential hazards, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces. Signage should be prominently displayed and easily visible.
5. Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting throughout the workplace, especially in areas with dim or shadowy conditions. Proper lighting helps employees identify potential hazards and navigate safely.
6. Safe Walking Surfaces: Maintain even walking surfaces and provide handrails on stairs and ramps to assist with stability and balance.
7. Employee Training: Provide comprehensive training to employees on STF prevention, including proper footwear usage, how to identify hazards, and reporting procedures for addressing unsafe conditions.
8. Footwear Policies: Implement footwear policies that require employees to wear appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles, especially in areas prone to spills or slippery surfaces.
9. Emergency Procedures: Establish clear emergency procedures for responding to STF incidents, including first aid protocols and reporting requirements.
10. Continuous Improvement: Continuously review and update safety procedures based on incident reports, feedback from employees, and changes in the work environment.

By implementing these preventive measures and fostering a culture of safety, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls in the workplace, creating a safer and healthier environment for everyone. Need help setting up and writing your safety practices at work? Contact Julia at JR Business Solutions at (320) 979-7116.