Weekly Safety Share #60 - Slips and Falls
With the snow melted and the weather warms, many construction and outdoor worksites enter their busiest season. While spring and summer eliminate winter-specific risks like deep snow and black ice, they introduce a new set of hazards that can be just as dangerous, especially when it comes to slips, trips, and falls. Rainstorms, muddy grounds, loose gravel, wet decking, and exposed cables become much more common. Combined with increased activity on site and the push to complete seasonal projects, it’s easy for these hazards to be overlooked. Staying vigilant and maintaining safe walking surfaces is essential to protecting every crew member and ensuring work continues without injury or disruption.
Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of injury on worksites. Every year, workers suffer from sprains, fractures, and more severe injuries due to unsafe walking conditions. Most of these incidents are entirely preventable with simple precautions and daily awareness.
Common Causes Include:
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Standing water or mud from rain
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Greasy or polished surfaces
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Loose gravel or uneven terrain
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Poorly secured or damaged flooring
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Electrical cords or tools left in walkways
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Broken or unstable ladder steps
Simple Controls to Prevent These Hazards:
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Keep walkways, stairs, and work areas clear of debris and tools.
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Coil up extension cords and hoses when not in use.
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Store wires and cables safely out of foot traffic zones.
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Wear proper, slip-resistant footwear appropriate for the environment.
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Routinely inspect and clean surfaces, especially after rainfall or during muddy conditions.
Additional Steps to Reduce Fall Hazards:
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Cover or guard floor holes as soon as they are created.
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Use guard rails or personal fall arrest systems when working at height.
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Conduct a site inspection at the start of each shift and continue throughout the day to identify any new hazards.
Proactive Tips to Prevent Slips and Trips:
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Always wear boots with slip-resistant soles designed for outdoor worksites.
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Clean up any spills immediately, especially oil or water near equipment.
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Avoid carrying loads that obstruct your line of sight—being able to see the ground is critical.
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Use traction devices when working in wet, slick, or unstable areas. Devices like ice cleats or grip-enhancing shoe attachments provide essential traction in slippery conditions—even during rainy summer days or early morning dew.
Final Reminder:
Whether it’s spring rain or summer heat drying mud into loose dirt, seasonal changes demand a renewed focus on safety. A moment of inattention or a missed hazard can lead to a serious fall. Stay alert, maintain clear paths, and look out for one another. Preventing slips, trips, and falls is everyone’s responsibility—and it starts from the ground up.