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2023 National Safety Stand Down To Prevent Falls
Every May, OSHA sponsors an emphasis program to reduce injuries from slips, trips and falls. One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury. May 2023, companies across the US are conducting awareness training with their teams to help increase awareness on fall prevention and prevent falls. Falls from same level and heights are the leading cause of industrial deaths and serious injuries.
Here are seven things you can do to prevent slips, trips and falls:
1. Pay attention when walking. Avoid talking on the phone, texting or carrying packages that restrict your view of the path in front of you.
2. Use the handrail when going up or down stairs.
3. Clean up incidental spills as soon as they happen to prevent the chance of someone walking on one and slipping.
4. Avoid placing boxes, cords or any other items in aisles or walkways.
5. Bring surface imperfections such as large cracks, potholes, loose tiles or protruding nails to your supervisor’s attention so that they can be addressed.
6. All work areas, offices, passageways, sidewalks, and public areas must be kept sanitary and orderly.
7. Walking and working surfaces must be kept free from protrusions, clutter, splinters, slip hazards, trip hazards, holes, and unstable or loose floor coverings and boards.
Learning Points:
1. Little falls hurt too…watch where you step: This emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our surroundings and taking caution even in seemingly small situations. It reminds us that even a minor misstep can lead to an injury, so it’s crucial to pay attention to our footing and potential hazards.
2. Housekeeping and 5S are extremely important in reducing slips, trip, and fall injuries: This learning point highlights the significance of maintaining a clean and organized work environment. Implementing effective housekeeping practices, such as regularly cleaning and decluttering, along with the principles of 5S (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain), can help prevent slips, trips, and falls by removing potential obstacles and hazards.
3. Clean up as you go – don’t wait till the end of the day to clean up: This learning point stresses the importance of maintaining cleanliness throughout the workday rather than leaving it all for the end. By adopting a “clean as you go” approach, individuals can promptly address spills, debris, or hazards they encounter, reducing the likelihood of accidents occurring due to accumulated messes or delays in cleanup.
These learning points underscore the significance of being mindful, proactive, and proactive in maintaining a safe and tidy work environment to prevent slips, trips, and fall injuries. By implementing good housekeeping practices and incorporating cleanliness into daily routines, individuals can create a safer space for themselves and others.
