Slips
A slip occurs when there is too little friction or traction between your footwear and the walking surface, causing a sudden loss of balance.
Common Causes:
- Spilled liquids like water, oil, or grease
- Weather conditions such as rain, snow, or ice
- Smooth or recently waxed floors
- Loose rugs or mats
- Uneven pavements
Trips
A trip happens when your foot strikes an object or uneven surface, causing a sudden disruption in balance.
Common Causes:
- Cluttered floors and tangled cables
- Poor lighting
- Uncovered wires or hoses
- Uneven tiles, bricks, or steps
- Wrinkled carpets or mats
Falls
Falls occur when a person loses balance and descends from a higher level to a lower level, such as falling from a ladder, scaffolding, or platform.
Common Causes:
- Faulty or unstable ladders
- Missing or broken guardrails
- Unsafe scaffolding
- Carrying heavy items while climbing
- Improper use of height-access equipment
Preventative Measures
The best way to reduce slip, trip, and fall incidents is by adopting proactive safety planning and routine training.
1. Awareness and Discipline
Start each shift with a 10-minute safety briefing. Discuss site conditions, wet surfaces, and fall-prone areas.
2. Adequate Lighting
Ensure all work areas are well-lit to help workers spot obstacles and hazardous conditions.
3. Safety Signage
Post warning signs around spills, open edges, or dangerous equipment zones.
4. Proper Footwear
Require slip-resistant shoes that provide strong traction for the work environment.
5. Clear Walking Areas
Keep walkways free of debris, cords, and equipment to prevent tripping hazards.
6. Wet Floor Policy
Regularly inspect, clean, and mark wet or icy areas, especially after rain or snow.
Statistics on Fatalities Caused by Slips, Trips, and Falls
211,640 slip, trip, and fall incidents were reported in 2020.
805 workers died from falls to a lower level.
136 workers died from falls on the same level.
57% of ladder-related fatalities occur in construction.
33% of same-level falls result from trips and slips.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for safety awareness and training across all industries.
Importance of Online Safety Training
While employers are legally required to train workers under OSHA standards, employees should also take personal responsibility for recognizing and avoiding hazards.
👉 Enrolling in an online safety course helps workers:
Identify slip, trip, and fall risks.
Understand OSHA safety standards.
Learn accident prevention techniques.
Build safe work habits for long-term protection.
Consistent training and awareness not only reduce accidents but also foster a culture of accountability and safety across the organization.
Conclusion
Slips, trips, and falls might seem like minor risks, but their impact can be devastating. Both employers and employees must remain vigilant, follow safety protocols, and maintain training compliance.
By combining awareness, preparation, and proper first aid training, workplaces can dramatically lower the likelihood of injuries and fatalities.
👉 Invest in online OSHA safety training today to protect your workforce and build a safer tomorrow.
