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Slips Trips and Falls Training – [Complete Video Kit]

$ 229.00

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Did you know that slip and fall accidents are one of the most common workplace injuries? In fact, 17% of disabling workplace injuries are because of a slip and fall accident. That’s why this training program is so important since most slips, trips and falls can be prevented. This slip, trip and fall training video will help educate your employees on how to reduce their chances of slipping and falling at work.

This Slip, Trip and Fall Training Teaches Several Important Concepts:

• Why is your body’s natural center of gravity so important and how can it be used to reduce slips, trips and falls?
• What steps can we take to avoid losing our balance?
• How your posture can effect your likelihood of tripping and falling
• How to increase stability when carrying or moving things
• How different walking surfaces effect our potential to slip and fall (carpet, tile, stairs, etc.)
• How to be aware of oil, grease, or water on the floor while working
• How to assess a work area for slip and fall hazards and how to remedy any issues that you may find
• What is the proper footwear needed in order to reduce slip, trip and fall injuries?
• How to reduce injury while falling
• What are the first aid guidelines to follow if a co-worker injures him or herself during a slip and fall?

Your employees are all at risk for a slip, trip or fall injury at work. This training video will help you teach them how to avoid serious injury and reduce your numbers of on the job accidents and injuries. This slip, trip and fall safety training video is available as a DVD or USB Stick in either English or Spanish language options, and is 19 minutes long.

Slip Trip and Fall Training Video – Full Length Preview:

All of our training videos include the following additional resources:

1) a leader’s guide.

The person giving the training can use the Guide to help facilitate the training and provide additional verbal support to the video. It also includes a sample outline for the training session along with the highlights of the course.

2) An Employee Quiz

Important to be able to test your trainees to make sure they understand and comprehend the training course they just watched.  This is also good for employer documentation for safety training of employees.

3) Answer Key to the Quiz

Ensures the questions are being answered correctly.

4) An Attendance Sheet

Allows you to keep track of who was trained, when the training occurred, who was the instructor, etc. Excellent documentation to prove your training requirements are in order.

5) A Printable “Certificate of Completion”

Allows you to give one to each employee who attends the safety training session.  Can also be kept in an employee file for training documentation.

Purchases made before 7:00 pm EST will be shipped out the same business day!

You will receive a tracking number for your package via email within a few hours of placing your order.

Shipping is a flat $12.00.

18 reviews for Slips Trips and Falls Training – [Complete Video Kit]

A good tool to help prevent slips and falls at work

A good basis for any job that has slip and fall hazards (and what workplace doesn’t?)

Good addition to our safety training library.

We had a lot of slip and fall accidents and this training was our first step in trying to stop those.

Educational and straightforward our team liked it.

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• Toolbox Talks

What is a Trip Hazard and how do you prevent them?

• by Afnan Tajuddin
• Trip Hazard & prevention

Table of Contents

Trip hazards

Trips occur when your foot strikes or collides with something, causing you to lose your balance. In most situations, individuals trip over obstacles that aren’t visible, such as uneven flooring edges, messy equipment, tools, or cables.

Accidents from trips are among the most common causes of accidents at work! Trip hazards result in thousands of injuries every year. The most common ones are musculoskeletal, cuts, and bruises but more serious conditions can also occur such as fractures or dislocations 

You can’t have a safe and healthy work environment if people aren’t able to move around it freely.

Every day, you are tasked with performing tasks that require the use of your legs. Below I’ve listed common trip hazards and how to assess them so they don’t cause injury or accident.

Common trip hazards

• Cluttered environment and poor housekeeping
• Scattered tools, material, electrical cables & hose in workplace
• Lack of illumination
• Floor surfaces that are uneven or damaged or floor coverings that are unsuitable
• Obstructed view
• Failure to use handrails when climbing on the stairs

Safety Controls for trip hazards:

The incidence of trips in the workplace can be dramatically reduced by implementing policies to regulate behavior. Time pressures on employees who are completing tasks might cause them to rush through work or not pay attention which could lead them into dangerous situations if they do not know what precautions need to be taken when it comes down to hazards like poor housekeeping for example.

The most common type of walking hazard is the slip or trip. This can be prevented by making sure that employees have been trained on how to avoid these dangers. With the proper education, you can avoid trip hazards and reduce your risk of injury or accident. When workers are given training on trip hazards it can help them be more aware of the risks involved, as well as prevent injuries.

Housekeeping:

Housekeeping is the first step towards preventing trip hazards. Maintaining good house- Keeping includes material & waste management to keep your workplace safe for everyone

• Housekeeping and maintenance should be handled by dedicated workers, if necessary.
• At the workplace, sufficient trash containers in various locations must be provided with a distinct color code system for all trash containers.
• All workplaces must maintain the greatest possible degree of cleanliness in order to ensure a safe working environment and prevent incidents. In addition, Good housekeeping contribute to safe working conditions, while poor housekeeping is one of the most common causes of accidents.
• Before beginning a task, before ending shifts, and after finishing a job, the workplace should be clean. This must be noted and clearly defined on the Work Permit..
• Housekeeping should be given adequate time to ensure that the premises are well maintained.

Material & cable Management:

• Materials must be stacked or kept in a secure way that prevents sliding, falling, or collapse.
• Provide separate storage areas apart from working places
• Hoses, ropes, and electric cables should be arranged & should never be allowed to remain on walkways.
• Providing electrical outlets at worksite will help avoid risk of tripping over wires.
• Place equipment closet and electrical outlets where possible
• Avoid the use of extension cables if possible. Instead, use retractable reel that can be wrapped up when not in use and takes up less space.
• When trailing cables is used temporarily, it is important that they be properly secured. hang power cords over work areas rather than on floor, Use cable ties or hangers.

Illumination:

Poor illumination in the workplace is associated with an increase in accidents. Use proper lighting for walkways, stairs, and ramps to reduce accidents at workplaces where there’s no light source available such as basements or work in the nighttime; keep your space well lit by turns on before entering any dimly-lit rooms so you can see what surrounds you easily without bumping into anything while walking around aimlessly!

Walking Surfaces:

Floor surfaces that are uneven or damaged can present a trip hazard. Floors must be kept clean at all times. Stairways, gangways, passageways, and doorways should all be free of obstructions. Floor coverings with an improper safety measurement could also be dangerous, Damaged surfaces/floors are reported for rectification. Safety precautions should also be taken when covering them. A trip can happen at any time so take extra care!

Stairs / Ladder:

Handrails are important when climbing or descending stairs. Make sure that the Ladder you are using often has been inspected! Damaged rungs also lead directly towards trips. stairs should be kept clean and tidy.

Trip Hazard Sign:

Trip Hazard Sign is a cautionary signal to protect from potential trip hazards. It does not substitute for maintaining personal safety, but instead helps communicate that there are things close by which can cause injury or accident if you weren’t careful enough with what you’re doing!

Responsibilities:

Employer responsibilities:.

Employers have a responsibility to control & manage trip hazards. This includes:

• Visiting workplaces and conducting workplace-specific risk assessments .
• To ensure that obligations are fulfilled, it is important to carry out periodic audits as needed.
• Ensure that employees are adequately trained and instructed.
• That suitable arrangements, are in place to maintain site tidiness to a high standard.
• To monitor daily site conditions and ensure that any remedial actions are implemented through his organization.

Employees responsibilities:

Employees also have responsibilities in relation to controlling the risk from trip hazards including: 

• Report anything dangerous, e.g. damaged flooring.
• Keep care of the working environment in which they are working;
• Remove all unnecessary tools and equipment from the work site and return them to the stores.

Regulation about trip hazards:

Workplace health, safety and welfare. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992

OSHA – Walking-Working Surfaces – 1910.22

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Videos about Slips, Trips and Falls on the Same Level

Slips, trips and falls general videos.

• BeSmart video is a 5 minute, 26 second presentation with some top tips on slips, trips and falls for smaller businesses
• Don’t Walk On By video shows a humorous take on slip, trip and fall hazards (3 minutes, 44 seconds)
• HSA's 30 minute STF online course  includes videos and presents an overview of slip, trip and fall (STF) hazards in the workplace
• Managing slip and trip risks webinar (December 2018)
• Napo - " No Laughing Matter " video series has several short animated videos (all less than 2 minutes) covering  slips, trips and falls
• Exiting vehicles  - animated unsafe practice in dismounting a truck and real-life video of the correct way to remove a trip hazard. (1 minute, 9 seconds)
• Gantries  - animated slip on material on a gantry, then real-life footage of simple housekeeping to remove the problem. (1 minute, 5 seconds)
• Housekeeping in workshops  - accident in an untidy workshop and real-life video of clearing the floor. (1 minute, 37 seconds)
• Muddy boots  - accident caused by muddy boots and real life video of a simple method of removing excess mud. (46 seconds)
• Paths and trip hazards  - animated accident after staff fail to report a pothole and real life video fixing a defective path. (1 minute, 7 seconds)
• Potholes  - animated fall in a pothole and real life video filling a pothole. (46 seconds)
• Snow or icy conditions  - animated slip on ice followed by gritting of the icy area. (49 seconds)
• Spillages  - animated slip on an oil spill with real life video removing an oil spill. (1 minute, 1 second)
• Stairs  - animated video with two falls on stairs followed by real life video of safe carrying of a load on stairs. (39 seconds)
• Signs - 8 minutes of people falling over the same patch of ice  with two warning cones in place
• WSIB Sous Chef Slip Video (30 seconds) graphically shows a slip accident. This video is graphic and viewer discretion is advised

Housekeeping Videos

• Housekeeping - Video (6 min 7 sec),  Steve Thorpe from HSL demonstrates pendulum slip resistance results of a dry floor, a wet floor and a “ cleaned ” floor
• Housekeeping - The Napo animated video " Hidden hazards " (55 seconds) shows various trip hazards
• Housekeeping - This video (1 minute, 9 seconds) shows animated unsafe practice in dismounting a truck and real-life video of the correct way to remove a trip hazard
• Housekeeping - This video  (1 minute, 5 seconds) shows an animated slip on material on a gantry, then real-life footage of simple housekeeping to remove the problem
• Housekeeping - This video (1 minute, 37 seconds) shows an accident in an untidy workshop and real-life video of clearing the floor

Ice, Snow Videos

• Ice/snow - 8 minutes of people falling over the same patch of ice
• Ice/ snow – this ice/ snow training video (3 minutes) suggests 9 “ defences ” for ice/ snow

Pedestrian Surfaces Videos

• Pedestrian Surfaces -  Slippery paving stones  (2 min 6 sec) shows news coverage of problematic paving on a road
• Pedestrian Surfaces - Hindley street paving stones  (2 min 32 sec) shows news coverage of problematic repair of a road surface

Slip Resistance Measurement Videos

• Slip Resistance Measurement - Managing slip and trip risks webinar (December 2018)
• Slip Resistance Measurement - in this video (6 min 7 sec), Steve Thorpe from HSL demonstrates pendulum slip resistance results of a dry floor, a wet floor and a “ cleaned ” floor
• Slip Resistance Measurement - this video (72 seconds) compares a  Slip Alert  used to take measurements on a dry and wet surface
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this video (6 minutes, 28 seconds) covers set up and use of a pendulum tester in the field
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this video (6 minutes, 14 seconds) covers set up and use of a pendulum tester in the laboratory
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this SlipAlert Video (1 minute, 26 seconds) is titled “ Buying new flooring ”  
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this SlipAlert Video (2 minutes, 37 seconds) is titled “ Effective cleaning and maintenance ”  
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this SlipAlert Video (3 minutes, 31 seconds) is titled “ Effectively slip testing floors ”  
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this SlipAlert Video (1 minute, 23 seconds) is titled “ Explaining slip risk ”  
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this SlipAlert Video (1 minute, 27 seconds) is titled “ Simple guide for 1st time users ”  
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this SlipAlert Video (3 minutes) is titled “ Site specific issues and the 3 layer model ”  
• Slip Resistance Measurement – this SlipAlert Video (2 minutes, 44 seconds) is titled “ SlipAlert Care ”

Stairs, Steps  Videos

• Stairs - HSA 30 minute STF online course  includes videos and presents advice about preventing slips, trips and falls
• Stairs - Managing slip and trip risks webinar (December 2018)
• Stairs - Mike Roys (2 min 35 sec) from the BRE talks about stairs including going size, slip resistance and nosings
• Stairs - Napo " Maintenance counts" animated video (51 seconds) shows hazards from lack of maintenance of stairs
• Stairs - Napo " One small step " animated video (1 minute, 30 seconds) shows the hazards from a step, the use of safety signs and resolving the problem
• Stairs - “ The Stair Event ” (18 minutes) recorded at the 1978 Commonwealth Games outlines some basics for stairs
• Stairs - subway stairs video (87 seconds) shows what happens in real life when one step is not consistent

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19th July, 2023

The Simple Guide To Slip And Trip Hazards At Work

In this simple guide to slip and trip hazards at work, we will look at some examples of slip and trip hazards, and the best ways to prevent those hazards from creating slips and trips in your workplace.

Slip and trip hazards probably won't be top of your health and safety concerns at work. But managing slip and trip hazards is a quick, easy (and often cheap) way to improve health and safety in your workplace.

30% of workplace injuries in the UK were caused by slips, trips and falls on the same level in 21/22, according to HSE statistics . That's over 150,000 reported accidents!

And that's just the reported injuries, where people were seriously injured. Most slips and trips probably don't get reported.

In this simple guide to slip and trip hazards at work, you can find some common examples of slip and trip hazards, and how to control them so you and your team don't become one of the 400+ people injured at work each day in the UK.

We'll start with trip hazards.

What is a trip hazard?

A trip hazard is something that could trip you up. The curled-up edge of a mat on your floor is a trip hazard. The cable running across your office is a trip hazard. The sticky-out corner of your desk could be a trip hazard. Anything left on the floor, that shouldn't be there, is probably a trip hazard.

And your trip hazards can trip people up, literally.

The more trip hazards you have, the more likely someone will trip up at some point. Any trip hazard could be an accident waiting to happen .

Examples of trip hazards

We've already discussed some trip hazards above. Before you keep reading, take a quick look around you. Can you see any trip hazards?

How many could you see? I bet you spotted a few. Trip hazards can be found in most places, here are some common examples of trip hazards at work:

• Uneven floors
• Trailing cables
• Obstructions
• Loose flooring
• Loose footwear
• Poor housekeeping
• Poor lighting
• Changes in floor level
• Untied shoelaces
• The straps of a bag

How to control trip hazards

The examples above might seem common, and some even unavoidable, but they shouldn't be ignored. Even small trips can cause serious injuries .

Not every trip hazard will create a huge risk, but by controlling the hazard, you can reduce the risk .

You can control trip hazards by:

• Removing them
• Moving them
• Fixing them
• Highlighting them

Remove trip hazards

If trip hazards can be removed, they should be. Very often, trips are caused by something being left on the floor that shouldn't be there.

And because it's not usually there, no one expects it, and so they trip over it!

For example, discarded packaging from your work might be creating a trip hazard for other people walking through your work area. By keeping your work area tidy and disposing of waste immediately, you help create a safer environment for yourself and others.

Removing a hazard is the best way to eliminate the risk. You can't trip over something that's not there.

Move trip hazards

You might not be able to remove a trip hazard, as it might be something that's needed.

For example, you can't dispose of a trailing cable if you need to be able to plug in the equipment you are using. But you can re-route the cable so that it doesn't cross a walkway.

Fix trip hazards

Some trip hazards don't need to be removed, but they can be fixed. For example, a pothole in a walkway can be fixed by resurfacing or filling the hole. Or a frayed carpet edge can be replaced.

Sometimes, a temporary fix might be all that's necessary. For example, putting a cover or ramp over a trailing cable or an uneven surface.

Highlight trip hazards

If something can't be removed, you could highlight it instead. Trips usually happen when the hazard is not expected.

If you can warn people of the hazard, e.g. making a stair tread a contrasting colour or making sure that lighting is good in walkways, it helps people to see the hazard before it trips them up.

What is a slip hazard?

A slip hazard is any hazard that creates a risk of slipping. The rainwater coming in on people's shoes is a slip hazard. The floor wet from being mopped is a slip hazard.

And it's not just water and liquids that are slip hazards. The smooth soles of your shoes could be a slip hazard. A dusty floor can be a slip hazard.

Slip hazards, as the name suggests, can make people slip.

Skip hazards are usually created by something temporary, like rain, ice, dust, cleaning, or leaks.

Examples of slip hazards

We've mentioned a few slip hazards above. Before you keep reading, can you think of any more?

Think about your workplace and different weather events or the different activities that happen. Do any slip hazards get created?

How many could you think of? Here are some common examples of slip hazards at work:

• Slippery floors
• Dusty floors
• Loose floor coverings
• Slippery soles
• Icy conditions

How to control slip hazards

Like trip hazards, slip hazards being present are a sign that people could get hurt. Broken legs, backs, arms and even head injuries can happen as a result of slip hazards being uncontrolled.

If you control the hazard, you can reduce the risk, and prevent slips in your workplace.

You can control slip hazards by:

• Preventing them

Prevent slip hazards

Slip hazards can occur due to new situations, rather than being permanent.

For example, a floor might not usually be slippy, but during wet weather, people's shoes bring rainwater in creating a slippery surface. Or during winter puddles may freeze.

While these slip hazards are not permanent, they can be predictable. If you have a tiled floor or smooth floor near an entrance, it's likely to get wet and slippery when people enter with wet shoes.

Using control measures like entrance mats to dry shoes, clearing ice from walkways, and having suitable a footwear policy can ensure that slip hazards are less likely to be created.

Remove slip hazards

Some slip hazards can't easily be predicted, like a burst pipe or a spilt drink or a leaky container. But they should be removed (and the source of the leak or spill fixed) as quickly as possible.

If you have a storage area, or an activity, that contains liquids, providing spill kits and training for what to do if a spill occurs can help make sure that any spill hazards get removed before they slip you up.

Highlight slip hazards

Not every slip hazard can be prevented or removed. For example, when you are mopping a floor, it's probably going to be slippery during the activity.

And if you are doing an activity that creates dust or loose fragments, the floor might be slippery until you are done and can clean it up.

In addition to making sure those doing the activity are wearing suitable footwear, you should also highlight the risk to other people so they don't accidentally step onto a slippery surface.

You could use a simple warning sign, or temporary barriers, depending on the risk level.

Download the free slips and trips toolbox talk template as a short refresher on slips and trips for you and your team.

This article was written by Emma at HASpod . Emma has over 10 years experience in health and safety and BSc (Hons) Construction Management. She is NEBOSH qualified and Tech IOSH.

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Slips, Trips, and Falls toolbox talk

A simple, 5 minute outline of what to cover in a toolbox talk on Slips, Trips, and Falls.

Download a Slips, Trips, and Falls toolbox talk pdf

Slips, trips and falls are a common reason for many of the injuries in workplaces. They can cause minor injuries but can also lead to serious, long-term injuries. Many slip, trips and falls are avoidable and there are usually easy solutions a workplace can apply to control the risk, either by eliminating or minimising it. It could be as simple as cleaning up a spillage straight away, or moving a cord off a walkway which can prevent injuries from occurring.

Why run a Slips, Trips, and Falls Toolbox Talk?

• Prevent unnecessary injury from slip, trips and falls by improving awareness and training
• Fewer injuries means higher productivity
• Makes sure workers know what to look for and what to do about it to reduce the risk of an injury occurring

What to watch out for that are common causes of slip, trips and falls? 

• Poor housekeeping & messy sites 
• Poor lighting 
• Uneven walking surfaces 
• Clutter on site 
• Uncovered cords and cables 
• Weather conditions (e.g. rain, ice, dust) 
• Obstructed views 
• Unsuitable footwear 
• Distractions (e.g. cell phone, other workers) 

What can you do to help prevent slips, trips and falls occurring? 

• Keeping work areas clear & tidy from clutter, obstructions and rubbish 
• Any waste placed in designated bins 
• Clean up any leaks or spills immediately 
• Put tools and equipment away
• Wear suitable footwear (e.g. grippy, anti-slip) 
• Ensure work areas are well lit and sufficient light for work
• Keep cords and cables out of walkways, covered or secured 
• Be aware of your surroundings and focus on what you are doing 
• Work to the weather conditions 

What if a slip, trip or fall occurs or nearly occurs? 

• Report all slip, trip and fall accidents and near misses, with or without injury, this will help identify the hazards and implement control measures to prevent reoccurrence

Key takeaways 

• Simply cleaning up your work area as you go, can help reduce slip, trips and falls 
• Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and look where you are walking  

If you see a hazard that has the potential to cause a slip, trip or fall then pick it up or fix it – don’t wait for someone else to do it. Do it yourself!

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• Weill Cornell Medicine

Slips, Trips, and Falls: Understanding, Preventing, and Mitigating Risks

By Gian Joseph, Safety Advisor

As we enter the rainy and cold season, we face several risks , which include slips , trips, and fall s in our day-to-day activities. It is important t o be aware of hazards around us and learn how to properly identify and assess any risks with each step.  

Slips, trips, and falls (STFs) are common accidents that can lead to severe injuries. These incidents occur in various settings, from homes and workplaces to public spaces , and i t is essential to understand the causes, consequences, and , most importantly, strategies for prevention and mitigation.   

1. Understanding the Dynamics of STFs. STFs are caused by the following .  

Insu fficient friction between the shoe and the walking surface. Common causes include wet or greasy floors, spills, and loose debris (Slip and Fall Accidents, 2021).  

When a person's foot collides with an object or an uneven surface, it caus es them to lose balance. Typical trip hazards include cluttered walkways, electrical cords, uneven flooring, and damaged or upturned mats (Slip and Fall Accidents, 2021).  

2. The Impact of STFs  

Slips, trips, and falls have far-reaching effects, affecting individuals and society . Personal i njuries range from minor cuts , bruises, sprains , and abrasions to fractures, dislocations, and head injuries (National Safety Council, 2021). The medical expenses associated with treating STF-related injuries can be substantial , including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care (National Safety Council, 2021). STFs can result in missed workdays and reduced productivity for both individuals and employers. Workers' compensation claims and absenteeism contribute to economic costs (National Safety Council, 2021). Lastly, t he physical and psychological consequences of STFs can limit mobility, independence, and overall quality of life, especially among older adults ( Sahyoun et al., 2020).  

3. Prevention and Mitigation Strategies  

Preventing and mitigating STFs involves a combination of awareness, environmental modifications, and education . H ere are some ways you can take precaution s against STFs in your daily activities;  

Clear Pathways: Maintain clear, unobstructed walkways by removing clutter and tripping hazards such as cords, toys, and loose rugs (Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA], 2002).  

Adequate Lighting: Ensure proper lighting in all areas, both indoors and outdoors, to improve visibility and reduce the risk of tripping over obstacles (OSHA, 2002).  

Slip-Resistant Flooring: Install slip-resistant flooring materials, especially in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens (OSHA, 2002).  

Footwear: Encourage the use of proper footwear with good traction, especially in environments where slip hazards are prevalent ( Sahyoun et al., 2020).  

Handrails and Guardrails: Install and maintain handrails and guardrails on stairs, ramps, and elevated platforms to provide support and prevent falls (OSHA, 2002).  

Warning Signs: Use signage to alert individuals to potential hazards, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces (OSHA, 2002).  

Education and Training: Promote awareness and provide training to individuals on recognizing and avoiding STF hazards (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH], 2015).  

Workplace Safety: Employers should implement safety protocols and conduct risk assessments in the workplace, addressing potential STF risks (NIOSH, 2015).  

Regular Maintenance: Routinely inspect and maintain buildings, walkways, and outdoor areas to identify and address potential hazards promptly (NIOSH, 2015).  

4. A Holistic Approach to STF Prevention  

Preventing and mitigating STFs require a collaborative approach involving individuals, organizations, and communities:  

Individuals : Exercise caution when walking, especially in unfamiliar or potentially hazardous environments. Wear appropriate footwear and take your time, especially in wet or slippery conditions ( Sahyoun et al., 2020).  

Employers: Create a safe work environment by identifying and mitigating STF risks. Provide training to employees on safety protocols and the proper use of equipment (OSHA, 2002).  

Property Owners and Managers: Ensure properties are well-maintained and free from hazards. Regularly inspect and address issues promptly (NIOSH, 2015).  

Government and Local Authorities: Enforce building codes and regulations that promote safety, especially in public spaces and commercial buildings (OSHA, 2002).  

Conclusion  

Slips, trips, and falls are preventable accidents that carry substantial personal, economic, and societal costs. By comprehending the causes, consequences, and prevention strategies, we can significantly reduce the incidence of STFs and mitigate their impact. Whether at home, at work, or in public spaces, prioritizing safety and fostering awareness about STFs is crucial for the well-being of individuals and communities. Let us strive collectively to create environments where everyone can move safely and confidently, free from the fear of falling.  

References:  

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2015). Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls in Wholesale and Retail Trade Establishments. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2015-100/pdfs/2015-100.pdf  

National Safety Council. (2021). Injury Facts. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/work/overview/work-safety-introduction/work-...  

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (2002). OSHA Publication 3151-12R. Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls in Wholesale and Retail Trade Establishments. https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3151.pdf  

Sahyoun , N. R., Pratt, L. A., & Lentzner , H. (2020). The Changing Profile of Nursing Home Residents: 1985-1997. Journal of Aging and Health, 12(3), 336-363.  

Slip and Fall Accidents. (2021). InjuryClaimCoach.com. https://www.injuryclaimcoach.com/slip-and-fall-accidents.html  

Please note that the sources cited are accurate as of the time of writing this article. For the most current information, consult authoritative sources and local health authorities.  

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6 Memorable Slip, Trip, & Fall Videos to Inspire a Culture of Safety - Director's Cut

• Monday April 4th 2022

Loose rugs or mats. Accidental spills that are yet to be discovered. Poor lighting. Clutter. All signal slip, trip, or fall incidents that are waiting to happen—and oftentimes, they’re preventable.  

Of course, as your organization’s purveyor of health and safety, you know that with proper EHS training and education you can empower your employees to identify, mitigate, and avoid these dangerous scenarios and help create a culture of safety . But you also know that standard, out-of-the-box training won’t get you very far. You need to create an engaging experience if you want your employees to retain the information. 

But how? Why not try to spice things up with a bit of humor? 

While the real-life implications of slips, trips, and falls are no laughing matter, videos of “epic fails” rule the digital world these days. And as it turns out, there are plenty of “educational” and “inspirational” workplace training videos featuring slips, trips, and falls that your employees may be able to learn from—or at least help you grab their attention. We simply couldn’t resist compiling some of them for your viewing and teaching pleasure. 

Some may make you laugh while others may make you cringe, but all of them illuminate the hazards that lurk in every workplace. 

But in all seriousness...

If you’re looking for help putting together an effective health & safety program, contact our seasoned health and safety consultants today. 

6 Employee Training Videos that Illuminate Hazards that Lurk in the Workplace

1. use a catchy tune and personification to show employees how not to let hazards go unmitigated.

From a tangled electrical cord bucket to an overflowing trash can, this musical classic showcases everyday hazards that employees often just “walk on by.” The real beauty? Like any catchy tune, the angelic singer’s repeated pleas to not let hazards go unmitigated will undoubtedly burrow its way into your employees’ minds forever (or at least the rest of the day). 

2. A multi-media mashup will entertain employees and make workplace safety memorable

The most entertaining part of this “short-film” is the editing. Not only is it jam-packed with non-stop scene changes, but it also incorporates some delightful animations and stick figure drawings to really drive the message home. Apparently, the full version is available for purchase, and it includes a full 15 minutes of magic. 

3. Present the idea of potentially horrific consequences to deeply resonate

If you think your employees will respond best to fear tactics, this ~spooky~ production should do the trick. Complete with horror movie music, this video can help show your employees that there’s really no excuse to not be safe at work. After all, they should know better. 

4. Leverage cartoon animation as an attention grabber showcasing workplace safety

Cartoons are a fundamental part of every kid’s childhood development. So, why not try to reconnect with that time of growth and budding self-awareness? 

This short-and-sweet video number is an “attention grabber” from the get-go, featuring an animated scene that clearly won’t end well. But what’s more is that it quickly shifts to a real-life environment, bringing employees back to the present and clearly showing how to properly walk down a set of stairs. 

5. Pay homage to workplace perils with a film noir production

This production out of Texas pays homage to The Twilight Zone days, providing a bit of mystery and suspense before ultimately revealing the tragedy that has occurred. In the end, viewers walk away with one thing: It’s up to them to prevent the workplace peril that leads to monstrous slips, trips, and falls.

6. The power of storytelling - “coming home alive is your job."

Did you know that fall protection and fall protection training is one of the most commonly cited OSHA violations? But armed with the knowledge of the four “fall factors”—gravity, momentum, balance, and friction—your employees will have all the insight and inspiration they need to prevent untimely incidents.

For even more laughs, check out our notoriously funny blog, 6 Hilarious Workplace Safety Videos Every EHS Professional Will Love & Cherish  

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Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter, The New Leaf. Our goal is to keep you updated, educated and even a bit entertained as it relates to all things EHS and sustainability.

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Back to Basics, Injuries and Illness

Back to basics: slips, trips, and falls.

Updated: Oct 23, 2023

Back to Basics is a weekly feature that highlights important but possibly overlooked information that any EHS professional should know. This week, we examine slips, trips, and falls.

How much are workplace slips, trips, and falls costing you?

“Falls on the same level” often get lumped together with falls from height in slips, trips, and falls. While falls from height can sometimes be fatal, falls on the same level can lead to costly nonfatal injuries, resulting in several days away from work for injured workers and workers’ compensation claims for employers.

According to insurer Liberty Mutual, falls on the same level cost employers $8.98 billion a year. Falls on the same level are the second-leading cause of seriously disabling workplace injuries in the insurer’s 2023 Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index .

“Overexertion involving outside sources,” or lifting heavy objects, is the index’s leading cause of disabling injuries.

“Slip or trip without fall” is the ninth leading cause of disabling injury, according to Liberty Mutual’s index. Liberty Mutual reported that injuries on slippery or uneven walkways cost employers $1.98 billion a year.

First, some definitions: Slips are a loss of balance directly caused by too little friction between workers’ feet and walking surfaces. Wet surfaces, spills, and weather hazards like ice and snow can lead to a lack of friction.

Trips occur when workers’ feet hit an object and workers are moving with enough momentum to be thrown off balance.

Falls on the same level occur when workers get too far off their center of balance.

Safety professionals aware of slip, trip, fall hazards

Travelers, another insurer, reported that slips, trips, and falls on the same level are the second-leading cause of injury, accounting for 15% of all accidents, with approximately 25,000 slip, trip, and fall accidents occurring daily in the United States.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), falls on the same level are the third-leading type of preventable injury at work after exposure to harmful substances and overexertion injuries. Falls on the same level affect every industry and workplace but are prevalent in the service, healthcare, and retail industries, according to the NSC.  

Data shows that the median number of days away from work following a fall on the same level is 12 days.

The NSC suggests that effective signage can help prevent injuries, regulatory violations, and higher insurance premiums.

Slip, trip, and fall hazards show up in many industries, but wholesale and retail trade (WRT) establishments suffer high rates of slip, trip, and fall injuries. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) offered several recommendations for protecting workers in the wholesale and retail industries.

Hazardous workplace factors include boxes or containers that obstruct workers’ field of vision; ice, rain, and snow; loose mats or rugs; poor lighting; spills that can create slippery surfaces; and walking surfaces that are in disrepair, have protruding nails and boards, or have changes in floor height.

NIOSH’s recommendations for employers include the following:

• Develop a written slip, trip, and fall prevention policy that spells out both employer and worker responsibilities.
• Ensure that aisles and passageways are free of clutter and other tripping hazards.
• Provide proper lighting in all areas indoors and outdoors to reduce shadows, dark areas, and glare so that trip hazards or surface irregularities are clearly visible, and promptly replace burnt-out light bulbs.
• If electrical cords are regularly used in a workspace, install outlets so that cords don’t cross walkways.
• Select flooring material according to the work performed in an area.
• Provide cleanup supplies—paper towels, absorbent material, “wet floor” signs, etc.—at convenient locations in the facility.
• Provide umbrella bags to prevent rainwater from dripping onto the floor.
• Use mats to provide slip-resistant walking surfaces by absorbing liquid and removing dirt, debris, and liquid from shoes. Mats should be large enough so that several footsteps fall on the mat and clean contaminants off the shoes.
• Provide water-absorbent mats near entrances and other areas where water, ice, or snow may drip or be tracked onto the floor.
• In grocery stores, ensure water from produce spray misters is directed onto produce and not spraying onto the floor.
• In grocery stores, provide customers with paper towels and plastic bags and for wet produce to prevent it from dripping water onto the floor.

You should supplement engineering controls with worker training. You need to train employees to identify slip, trip, and fall hazards and how to prevent slips, trips, and falls by using safe cleaning procedures and placing caution signs and/or cones around the site to warn other employees and visitors to avoid wet walking surfaces.

NIOSH also has employer guidance for preventing slips, trips, and falls in health care. According to NIOSH, the top slip, trip, and fall hazards in health care are:

• Contaminants (fluids, food, grease, oil, and water) on the floor;
• Poor drainage of drains and pipes;
• Walking surface irregularities indoors and outdoors like uneven flooring or ground and holes, protrusions, and rocks;
• Weather conditions like ice and snow;
• Inadequate lighting;
• Stairs and handrails;
• Stepstools and ladders;
• Tripping hazards like clutter, loose cords, hoses, wires, and medical tubing; and
• Improper use of floor mats and runners.

NIOSH’s guide includes an extensive checklist of slip, trip, and fall hazards that should be addressed in a healthcare facility.

OSHA has its own checklist for recognizing slip, trip, and fall hazards in the workplace. The list covers the general work environment, as well as aisles and walkways; escalators; elevated surfaces; floor and wall openings; ladders and scaffolding; parking lots and sidewalks; and ramps, stairs, and stairways.

NIOSH also warns young retail workers that slips, trips, and falls can result in bruises, bumps, cuts, fractures, scratches, sprains, and strains. The institute cautions young workers to clear stairs and walkways of tripping hazards like cords and wires, clutter, and  empty cartons; to use handrails when walking up and downstairs; and to clean up spills and anything slippery on floors and the rungs, steps, and feet of ladders.

Control measures and training can be further supplemented with personal protective equipment. Employees who work on wet or contaminated walking surfaces should wear slip-resistant shoes. Workers should choose footwear that’s also resistant to chemicals, heat, and oil.

NIOSH has looked into the value of wearing slip-resistant shoes.

Laboratory studies of slip-resistant footwear to reduce slips, trips, and falls had shown promise in reducing slips, but until a few years ago, there was little research showing the effectiveness of slip-resistant shoes.

In 2019, NIOSH researched the effectiveness of slip-resistant shoes in a study of 17,000 food service workers in 226 school districts serving kindergarten through 12th-grade students. Workers were randomly assigned either to a group that received no-cost, “5-star-rated” slip-resistant shoes or to a group that bought their own slip-resistant shoes.

Researchers looked at workers’ compensation injury claims for accidents caused by slipping on wet or greasy surfaces to evaluate the effectiveness of the shoes.

The group that was provided with highly rated slip-resistant shoes saw a 67% reduction in claims for slip injuries.

There was a baseline of 3.54 slipping injuries per 10,000 months worked among the intervention group, which was reduced to 1.18 slipping injuries per 10,000 months worked after slip-resistant shoes were provided.

Employees who handle materials should ensure the walkways are unobstructed before transporting large materials that might block their view. They should walk with caution and make wide turns at corners. They also should push rather than pull carts to allow a better line of sight.

Housekeeping measures can also help prevent slips, trips, and falls. Your housekeeping policies should include:

• Cleaning floors and work surfaces as soon as they become wet;
• Inspecting refrigerated and freezer cases for water leakage onto the floor surfaces and placing absorbent strips and water-absorbent mats on the floor until the unit is repaired;
• Placing warning signs in wet-floor areas and removing them promptly when floors are clean and dry;
• Using no-skid waxes in slippery areas and using soap that doesn’t leave a slippery residue;
• Maintaining drainage and providing false floors (elevated floors usually 2 to 4 inches above the structural floor designed to provide a surface for safe transit), platforms, or nonslip mats during wet or oily processes;
• Cleaning only one side of a passageway at a time to allow room for passing;
• Keeping passageways clear at all times and marking permanent aisles and passageways; and
• Taping or anchoring electrical cords to floors if they cross walkways.

Workplace housekeeping

In a safety talk handout , the NSC emphasizes the importance of workplace housekeeping in factories and manufacturing plants, offices, and warehouses.

Workplace housekeeping can prevent slip, trip, and fall hazards, as well as control fire hazards and prevent falling objects.

The NSC recommends housekeeping measures suggested by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Safety and Health (CCOSH) that include:

• Cleaning all spills immediately;
• Mopping or sweeping debris from floors;
• Marking spills and wet areas;
• Removing obstacles from walkways and keeping walkways free of clutter;
• Securing carpets, mats, and rugs that don’t lay flat (tacking or taping floor coverings, for example);
• Ensuring file cabinet or storage drawers are closed;
• Covering cables or cords that cross walkways; and
• Keeping working areas and walkways well lit and replacing used light bulbs and faulty light switches.

Some industry groups tout “how to fall” training as a method of mitigating slip, trip, and fall injuries. Others offer “safe walking” tips like “watch where you are going,” “be aware of your environment,” “keep an eye out for changes in elevation,” and “take your time and don’t rush.”

According to the CCOSH, specialty footwear or training on proper walking and “safe falling” will never be fully effective without adequate housekeeping practices.

Federal regulation

Slip, trip, and fall hazards are addressed in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) walking-working surfaces standards (29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1910 Subpart D). In 2016, OSHA issued a final rule revising subpart D to incorporate advances in technology, industry best practices, and national consensus standards to ensure cost-efficient and effective worker protection.  The revised rule requires employers to inspect walking-working surfaces regularly to correct, repair, or guard against hazardous conditions.

OSHA defines a “walking-working surface” as “any horizontal or vertical surface on or through which an employee walks, works, or gains access to a work area or workplace location.” Ensure aisles and walkways in your facility are kept clear of slipping or tripping hazards that lead to falls on the same level.

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