Although easily preventable, OSHA reports that slips, trips and falls account for the majority of workplace injuries in the United States. There are many ways in which you can protect yourself and your co-workers against slips, trips and falls on the manufacturing floor, which is important because these types of accidents can cause serious pain: head injuries, back injuries, broken bones, sprains and strains to muscles. Trying to catch your balance when you slip or trip—whether or not you fall—can cause sprains or strains to muscles and joints as well as permanent back injuries.
Keep the following suggestions in mind to avoid these hazards while you are at work:
· Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as work gloves, safety shoes and eye protection.
· Be aware of slipping and falling hazards when working on raised platforms, and use caution whenever you are working at a height.
· Clean up spills immediately.
· Keep walkways clean and free of debris or other tripping hazards.
· Always use trash bins to prevent the buildup of trash and debris.
· Keep all extension cords and hoses orderly and clear of walking spaces.
· Barricade any machinery or immovable object that might cause someone to trip.
· Before you begin a new task, inspect the area to identify, and consequently eliminate or correct, hazardous working conditions.
· Wear appropriate footgear with good traction to decrease your chance of slipping and falling.
· When walking, beware of any foreign substances on the floor, such as water from wet weather, sawdust, grease or debris.
Spot Hazards
If you notice any conditions on the job site that you think may present a slipping hazard, correct them immediately or let your supervisor know. Quickly resolving the problem could mean saving yourself or a co-worker from lost pay, a lot of pain or even death.