Safety Tip: Easy Steps to Avoid Falls

The National Safety Council focused on fall prevention during National Safety Month in June - and with good reason. Falls account for eight percent of all occupational fatalities from trauma, according to the Dept. of Labor.

Scaffolding and fall protection were the top two OSHA violations in 2008.
Hazard communication was third.

But most falls can be prevented by taking fairly easy steps, like ensuring good lighting and sturdy surfaces, wiping up spills and using proper footwear. Identifying risks and prevention measures are the first steps toward reducing fall hazards.

Here are some tips to help keep your workplace fall-free:

• Clearly mark potential fall hazards
• Keep hallways and workspaces clutter-free
• Require sensible footwear
• Clean up spills immediately
• Wear personal fall protection equipment when required
• Keep floors clean and dry
• Maintain good lighting
• Set up ladders and scaffolds securely
• Hold onto ladders while climbing and working

Posting signs that warn employees about potential hazards and remind them to use personal protective equipment can also help reduce workplace injuries. For more information about fall prevention, check these websites:

• OSHA fall prevention page
• OSHA guidance for small businesses
• Business.gov information on workplace safety
• Safety Daily Advisor article: Cooking Up a Slip-and-Fall Prevention Plan