Get a Grip on Slips

This article was originally published in EHS Today

What's the best way to prevent slips and falls? Based on the number of injuries in the workplace due to slippery floor conditions, there is no simple answer.

Any one solution -- be it slip-resistant shoes, mats or worker awareness -- will not eliminate the hazard. EHS professionals who want to implement, upgrade or review their slip-prevention programs need to ensure that they consider all aspects of what causes a slip and what can be done to reduce or eliminate one of the workplace's most common hazards. One key solution is proper floor care.

Keeping floors clean and clutter-free is one of the best ways to reduce hazards. Here are several common-sense tips to keeping floors clean and free of contaminants:

• Clean up spilled liquids or tracked-in water immediately by mopping or using an absorbent material.
• Sweep up loose debris.
• Inspect flooring surfaces for holes, chips or other trip hazards and make necessary repairs.
• Eliminate chronic hazards by implementing design changes, such as machine guards, and frequent equipment inspection and servicing.
• Select a floor cleaner that enhances slip resistance and does not leave a slippery residue.

Unless all floor surfaces can be inspected constantly, it is impractical to assume that contaminants will always be cleaned up immediately. Even hourly inspections, for example, may not be often enough.

When leaks and spills are unavoidable, keep contaminants away from walkways by using absorbent materials, nonabsorbent barriers and containment decking. Once liquid is contained, retrieve it with a vacuum or pump for reuse or recycling. Use warning signs, safety cones or barricade tape if you notice hazards such as broken, protruding or loose debris in walkways, or newly waxed or mopped floors not cordoned off.

Read the full article to learn about other tips to reduce slips and falls.