Weekly Safety Share #74 - Slips and Falls
Good morning, everyone!
With temperatures dropping and the return of icy mornings, we’re entering the season where slips and falls become some of the most common—and preventable—workplace injuries. Frozen ponds, standing water turning to ice, and a light dusting of snow can easily hide hazards beneath the surface. As we navigate our job sites and work areas, we must all take extra precautions to ensure our footing is secure and our surroundings are safe.
Why Slips, Trips, and Falls Matter
Every year, thousands of workers across Canada are injured due to preventable slips, trips, and falls. These incidents are not only painful—they can lead to lost workdays, reduced mobility, and even long-term injuries. The good news is that most of these accidents can be avoided by maintaining safe walking and working surfaces and practicing good housekeeping habits.
Common Causes of Slips, Trips, and Falls
Workplace hazards that increase the risk of these accidents include:
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Ice, snow, and standing water on walkways and job sites
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Grease or oil on shop floors
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Loose flooring, mats, or carpeting
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Uneven walking surfaces
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Cluttered walkways and poor housekeeping
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Poorly placed electrical cords, hoses, or tools
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Damaged ladder steps or handrails
Even a small patch of ice or misplaced extension cord can create a serious risk.
Preventive Controls: Simple Steps, Big Impact
Many slip and fall hazards can be controlled with a few easy practices:
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Keep walkways and stairs clear of debris, tools, and clutter
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Coil up extension cords and hoses when not in use
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Reroute electrical and communication wires out of high-traffic areas
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Wear appropriate footwear—especially slip-resistant boots
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Clear and salt work areas, stairs, and pathways regularly during snowy or icy conditions
Avoiding Potential Hazards
Be proactive before work even begins:
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Cover or guard floor holes immediately after they’re created
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Install guardrails or fall arrest systems whenever a fall hazard exists
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Survey your work site daily to identify new hazards such as holes, ice patches, or uneven terrain
Consistent hazard awareness is key to preventing incidents.
Smart Habits for Everyday Safety
You can help prevent slips and trips by:
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Wearing work boots with slip-resistant soles
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Cleaning up spills and leaks immediately
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Keeping your hands free and vision clear when carrying objects
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Using traction devices like ice cleats when walking outdoors in winter conditions
Traction aids are a simple and cost-effective way to increase grip and stability, helping you stay upright and injury-free.
Final Reminder
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Take the time each day to inspect your surroundings, report hazards, and look out for your teammates. A few extra minutes of prevention can save days or weeks of recovery time later.
Stay alert, stay safe, and let’s keep every step on solid ground this winter!