slips trips and falls risk assessment example

How to Conduct a Risk Assessment for Slips, Trips, and Falls

When was the last time you conducted a risk assessment at your facility for slips, trips and falls?  Has it been more than a year?  If so, you’re due for another assessment.

According to Jerry Chapman, Corporate Safety Manager at ITU AbsorbTech, once you’ve assessed your facility, it becomes a matter of sustainability.  Any time you have a floor layout or traffic flow change, you should reassess.  You should also reassess at least annually to look for changes or maintenance issues.  Conduct your observations at different times of the day and year to account for shift changes and seasonal changes such as snow being tracked indoors.

What are Slips, Trips and Falls?

A slip results from too little friction between footwear and the walking surface, resulting in loss of balance.  Common culprits include water, snow, mud, grease, oil, food, dust, powders, fresh wax, and poor housekeeping.

A trip occurs when the foot or lower leg comes in contact with an object or steps down and loses balance.

A fall can occur at the same level, or to a lower level and occurs when someone is off their center of balance.

Why conduct a facility assessment?

A facility assessment helps identify the location of high risk hazards.  According to OSHA, the majority of general industry accidents are slips, trips, and falls. They cause 15% of all accidental deaths and are second only to motor vehicle accidents as a cause of fatalities. And most could have been prevented.

Slips, trips, and falls are regulated by OSHA and ANSI.  29 CFR 1910 Subpart D includes requirements for housekeeping, aisles, floor and wall openings, open-sided floors, stairways, railings, stairs, scaffolding and ladders.  The requirements can be found on the OSHA web site .

In addition, ANSI has adopted standards for floor safety in partnership with the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI).  The B101.1 floor safety standard makes property owners accountable for the slip resistance of their walkways.

Slips, trips and falls can be costly to your company.  According to the 2016 National Safety Council report, the average costs for a slip/fall incident was $31,788 for a knee injury, $26,357 for an ankle injury, and $24,964 for a foot or toe injury.  This doesn’t include the cost of reduced productivity, training a replacement worker, OSHA fines, and increase in insurance premiums.  There are also costs to the employee, including lost wages, pain, potential disability or emotional disorder, and even death.

Who should be involved in an assessment? 

This is determined by your organizational structure, corporate culture, and style of safety management.  For example, the culture at ITU AbsorbTech is team-based with group participation and engagement. All managers and their respective employees are involved in the process.

Other styles may be more authoritative or control-based.  The style of safety management will determine how your assessment is conducted.

An Environmental Heath & Safety Manager may conduct the assessment, an insurance representative can advise, and outside vendors and consultants can offer third party advice in their respective area of expertise. For example, as a safety floor mat provider, our company conducts hundreds of facility assessments each year and can identify slip hazards often overlooked.

Areas to Assess

The first step in your assessment is to make a list of all the risk areas.  The most common are:

• Level floors
• Raised surface (such as a mezzanine or boom lift)
• Parking Lot

What are the different ways to assess your facility?

Job safety analysis (jsa).

A job safety analysis is a systematic study of work prodedures or instructions to determine hazards created by unsafe hazards or conditions within in a job or task. This should be completed for any job that has high or serious accident frequency, is hazardous in nature, has a new or different tasks, is seasonal or temporary, or can cause pain or ergonomic risks.  To conduct a JSA, identify all possible hazards or unsafe conditions, including slips, trips, and falls, pinched fingers, flygin debris, etc. Each hazard should be addressed with a corrective procedure, improved environment (such as a safety rail or PPE), and/or reduced frequency.

Observation

Past history/trend analysis, employee feedback, safety checklists.

OSHA provides a number of safety checklists located here : http://www.isri.org/safety-best-practices/isri-safety/isri-safety-resources/osha-resources/osha-inspection-checklist#.WG6nZFMrJEY

We put together a quick checklist for some of the common slip, trip and fall hazards to watch for.

Slips and Trips, and Falls Prevention Checklist

• Paved entrance cracking or uneven
• Ice, water, or mud tracked in from the outdoors
• Rumpled floor mats or carpet with curled edges
• Uneven transition from one surface to another
• Coffee spills
• Puddles by the water fountain
• Cafeteria sinks
• Spills near food vending areas
• Slick floor from polish or wax
• Open cabinets, files, or desk drawers
• Missing or uneven floor tiles
• Bathroom sinks or toilets leaking or overflowing
• Soap spills
• Puddles under air dryer or towel station
• Slick floor from mopping
• Chemicals, fluids that can be tracked, spilled, sprayed, dripped
• Leaking or dripping fluids in and around machinery
• Pallets or tools in gangways
• Protruding nails, splinters, holes, or loose boards
• Dusts, powers, granules, or plastic wrapping
• Obstructions in aisles and passageways
• Piled up items
• Uncovered hoses, cables, wires, or extension cords

Additional Checklists

OSHA provides checklists for the following areas regarding fall protection.  Click on the link to view the checklist.

• Raised Surface : Fall protection on walking or working surfaces that are 6 feet or more above lower levels.
• Guardrails: Guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, or warning line systems.
• Controlled-access: Controlled-access zones, safety monitoring systems, covers, protection from falling objects, or fall protection plans are used.

Risk management

A facility assessment is an ongoing process.  Along with the risk assessment comes the process of risk management and root cause analysis. In this stage, you will evaluate the conditions responsible for a hazard.  Is it the environment?  Poor lighting?  Temperature?  Air quality? Health condition of employees?  Improper personal protective equipment or footwear? Poor housekeeping?  Improper cleaning methods?  Lack of signs or training?  Lack of motivation?

A facility assessment provides a framework for risk analysis, but the process doesn’t end there.  Here is a list of some of Jerry’s favorite safety resources to learn more:

• Safetycom: For tips on home and family
• KellerOnline.com : Subscription to this has been a great resource
• OSHA.gov/law-regs.html : Note if regulation number is highlighted it has links to directives/letters and interpretations

Jerry Chapman is the Corporate Safety Manager for ITU AbsorbTech.  He is a certified safety professional that has helped ITU AbsorbTech achieve an 82% reduction in injury rates in the past 10 years (compared to previous 10 years) with an average incident rate at about half of the industry average.  Jerry also played a role in helping ITU AbsorbTech win the Wisconsin Corporate Safety award in 2010, 2012, 2014, the Pennsylvania Governor’s Safety Award in 2012, and the Indiana Governor’s Workplace Safety Awar in 2012.

Related Posts

How Can Oil Leaking Machines Lead to Improved Operational Efficiency?

Best Reusable Spill Control Supplies for Manufacturing and the Three Cs of Spill Control

Solvent Management Best Practices for Printers

Requirements for First Aid Kits in the Workplace

Share this entry.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on WhatsApp
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share by Mail

Company News

Helpful Links

• 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.  

Go to the staff directory for individual contacts within EHS. You may also use the Weill Cornell Medicine online directory to search for faculty and staff.

Create an EHS Incident

Weill Cornell Medicine Environmental Health and Safety 402 East 67th Street Room LA-0020 New York, NY 10065 Phone: (646) 962-7233 Fax: (646) 962-0288

• Course Search
• All Courses
• Business, Management & Legal
• Construction & Engineering
• Energy & Utility
• Environmental Management
• Fire Safety
• Health and Safety
• Mental Health & Wellbeing
• Project Management
• Working at Height
• City & Guilds
• ECITB/CCNSG
• Ladder Association
• SPA Passport
• Asbestos Training
• CCNSG (ECITB)
• CDM Training
• CITB Courses
• Construction NVQ
• First Aid Training
• IPAF Training
• IOSH Courses
• LOLER Training
• NEBOSH Courses
• PASMA Training
• PUWER Courses
• E-learning (New!)

Slips, Trips and Falls Risk Assessment

Watching out for possible danger, carrying out a risk assessment, ways to prevent slips, trips and falls in the workplace.

• Prevent spillages and contamination from getting onto the floor, such as oils, water and other substances.
• If a spill does occur, control the contamination as soon as it happens.
• Do what you can to eliminate or protect against adverse environmental conditions such as rain and snow.
• Take a look at the floors in your workplace. How can you improve them so that they are more even and stable?
• If you have carpeting in your workplace, make sure that it is not uneven or lifted up in any areas.
• Make sure that walkways are properly lit so that any obstructions can be easily seen.
• What footwear do your employees wear? Can they wear something that is safer and less prone to slippage?
• Perform a close examination of your work activities. Contamination comes in a number of forms including saw dust, food, cardboard or fluids – so watch out for these risks.
• Consider how good design can prevent contamination and slipping hazards from getting on the floor, such as fixing the leaks in machines and fitting canopies over entrances.

A Positive Attitude Toward Work Safety

Looking for risk assessment e-learning.

Like most sites envico-online.com uses cookies to help provide a better user experience. Click here to read the  Cookie Policy .

• Pick a Category
• Choose a Course
• Team Leader
• Senior Executive
• Business Owner

Still not sure? Contact us on: 0808 1966 830

Quick Booking

* I agree to the terms of service of Envico®

• Risk Assessments

Risk Assessment Template Slips Trips and Falls

• Instant access
• Online editor
• Your business name
• Edit for 30 days
• PDF download
• 655+ documents
• Individual plans
• Your business logo
• Unlimited edits
• Fully branded

Document Description

Create your document in minutes with this ready to use Slips Trips and Falls Risk Assessment template. Use the quick and easy editor to add your details, make changes, and download a completed document branded with your business name.

This Slips Trips and Falls Risk Assessment has been created to assess the risks associated with slips, trips and falls from movement around the workplace.

The Slips Trips and Falls Risk Assessment will give you a good indication of the hazards that can contribute to slips, trips and falls, along with the risks and controls you should be thinking about.

The hazards that can create slips, trips and falls include uneven surfaces, obstructions and trip hazards, spillages, wet surfaces, poor flooring and lighting. Use this Slips Trips and Falls Risk Assessment to identify hazards involved with the activity, assess risk levels, and outline the controls needed to minimise risk.

You can use the Slips Trips and Falls Risk Assessment template as it is, in your business, and we will add your business name at the top of each page. The template is pre-completed as a ready to use example for the activity, you can edit it as much as you need to produce a site specific health and safety document for your projects or workplace.

This 6 page document includes:

• Assessment of Risk
• Significant Hazards
• Persons at Risk
• Control Measures
• Assessment of Remaining Risk
• Further Action Required
• Acknowledgement

How do I edit this document?

This Slips Trips and Falls Risk Assessment template can be edited online within your browser. Editing is quick and simple, but if you need more time, there's no hurry to finish your document today - you get 30 days use of the template and online editor to create your document.

When you complete your order, the document can be found in your account under 'Documents'. You can edit the document online from your HASpod account.

How do I download this document?

Download in PDF format for maximum compatibility across devices - no special software required. Once downloaded you can save, print and use your Slips Trips and Falls Risk Assessment document within your business for as long as you need it.

After making your edits, click the download button to get your PDF - we will add your business name in the header for you.

Get unlimited access to every document on the Documents Plan .

• Search search
• Slips Trips and Falls
• Preventing Slips Trips and Falls

Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls

Learn what you can do to prevent and control slip, trip and fall hazards in the workplace.

Page Content

Slip, trip and fall hazards, for more information.

Slips, trips and falls can happen in any workplace, and should not be overlooked. They can cause:

• Minor injuries such as sprains and strains.
• Broken bones due to the impact when trying to break the fall.
• Back injuries due to the impact from the fall.
• Cuts if the incident occurs near sharp objects.
• Head injuries if the person hits the head upon impact.
• Burns if the incident occurs near hot surfaces, or if the person is handling hot fluids.
• Death in more serious cases. For example, a person may slip and fall off an open side of a building if it is not barricaded.

The table below lists:

• Hazards associated with slips, trips and falls.
• Examples of risk control measures that your risk assessment team can take to minimise or eliminate the risks associated with these hazards.

Employer's Role

• Conduct Risk Assessments (RA) to eliminate or minimise slip, trip and fall risks.
• Maintain a safe work environment (e.g. by selecting the right type of non-slip flooring and providing sufficient illumination at the workplace).
• Provide employees with personal protective equipment (e.g. non-slip work shoes), training, instruction and supervision for relevant work activities.

To improve workplace practices, you should also:

• Establish clear standards for workplace housekeeping and set an expectation for employees to maintain them. Refer to the WSH Guidelines on Workplace Housekeeping for more information.
• Conduct routine workplace inspections to confirm that all hazards have been addressed, and to ensure that your risk control measures have been effectively implemented.
• Encourage employees to report near-miss incidents so that you can prevent future accidents.
• Encourage employees to submit ideas on slip, trip and fall prevention through a WSH staff suggestion scheme.

Employee's Role

• Adhere to safe work procedures and instructions.
• Not endanger yourself or others with unsafe behaviour (e.g. running across a wet floor or using a handphone while walking down the stairs).
• Use personal protective equipment (e.g. non-slip work shoes) provided by your company.
• Clean up all spills promptly.
• Keep walkways and staircases free of obstacles.
• Keep the floor in the work area dry, clean and free from clutter.
• Tape down power cords or cables to prevent tripping.
• Report any hazards you spot (e.g. damaged floor tiles, curled mats), and place a warning sign to alert others before the hazard is removed.
• Report all near misses and accidents promptly to your employer.
• Submit suggestions on slip, trip and fall prevention.
• ABC Checklist – Slips, Trips and Falls

19 Apr 2024 Training Materials Resources for Training Providers

25 Jan 2024 Collaterals Posters

04 Oct 2023 Collaterals Posters

Advisory – Beware of scams and phishing emails

Send us feedback if you receive any suspicious or inappropriate emails asking for your personal information. The email may not have been sent by Workplace Safety and Health Council. Do not click on any link or open any attachments. Your feedback can help us fight against scammers – contact us immediately. We use cookies on wshc.sg to provide a better user experience that's more tailored to you. If you continue, you are giving us your consent to receive cookies only on this site. To decline cookies at any time, simply adjust your browser settings. Read our Privacy Statement.

Warning notification: Warning

Unfortunately, you are using an outdated browser. Please, upgrade your browser to improve your experience with HSE. The list of supported browsers:

Slips, trips and falls

Slips, trips and falls are the main cause of accidents in the workplace that result in more than 3 days absence from work.

The main causes of slips, trips and falls includes:

• wet surfaces
• damaged flooring
• changes in level of floors
• slippery surfaces
• transition areas, for example, carpeted to tiled floor
• cables, mats and other floor obstructions
• overused warning or safety signs
• inadequate or inappropriate lighting

Fast facts - slips, trips and falls (PDF, 745 KB, 2 pages)

Check list - slips, trips and falls (Word, 43 KB, 4 pages)

• Safety guidance to prevent slips, trips, and falls (PDF, 424 KB)

Managers carrying out a risk assessment

You must ensure that slips, trips and falls are assessed as part of the risk assessment.

When carrying out the risk assessment, you should consider:

• the use of the premises
• the occupancy of the premises
• the services being supplied
• the activity that takes place

Related files

• Generic risk assessment form (Word, 33 KB, 2 pages)
• Generic risk assessment fillable form template (Word, 132 KB, 2 pages)

Contact HSE Health and Safety helpdesk

Use the Health and Safety self-service portal or

Phone: 1800 420 420

Monday to Friday 10.30am to 12 noon and 2.00pm to 3.30pm

School operations

Slips, Trips and Falls Prevention

• 1. Ongoing management of slips, trips and falls prevention
• 2. Identifying and assessing slip, trip and fall risks and hazards
• 3. Controlling the risks
• 4. Hazard, incident and near miss reporting

Many causes of slips, trips and falls can be identified by being observant and vigilant of the surrounding environment. If a slip, trip or fall hazard is identified, it should be reported to the principal and/or their delegate.

Common hazards include but are not limited to:

• students sitting on the floor
• school bags left in foot traffic paths
• spills of liquid and wet cleaning methods such as mopping
• a sudden change in floor surface, for example joins between carpet and tiles
• change from wet to dry surface or dusty and sandy surfaces
• surface and incline of ramps, including those that go over kerbs and thresholds
• loose or bumpy flooring
• worn floor coverings or broken tiles and cracks in floors
• door mats not fastened to the ground, may have curling or tucked edges
• changes in floor level, thresholds, and doorstops
• electrical cords, computer cables, floor sockets and phone jacks
• chairs not pushed under tables
• sporting equipment, arts supplies and other educational aids being stored on the floor
• potholes, loose gravel, gutters and carpark bollards.

Other contributing factors include:

• inclement weather
• low light levels
• unsuitable footwear
• carrying loads that obstruct vision, such as books or boxes
• inattention or becoming distracted, such as using a mobile phone
• changes to the way a space is used, such as the gym hall being used for exams, rearranging desks in a class room
• inadequate provision of safe access for people with special needs or disability.

Regular workplace inspections must be undertaken by the principal and/or their delegate to identify slips, trips and fall hazards that need to be resolved.

Once risks are identified, following the risk management procedure and conducting a risk assessment is a practical way of considering the likelihood and severity of slips, trips and fall hazards and risks and appropriate controls (using the hierarchy of control). As part of the risk assessment consideration should be given to:

• how many people are exposed
• the consequences of the slip or trip – a slip or trip with or without a fall can be more serious if it occurs near hot, sharp or moving objects, or at a height, such as near stairs
• how often the situation occurs.

The OHS Advisory Service and regional OHS support officers can provide advice on preventing and managing slips, trips and falls, including completing a risk assessment. WorkSafe Victoria also provides guidance to completing a risk assessment External Link .

Reviewed 15 January 2023

• Print whole topic

• Skip to main content

Disruptions to bin collections due to strike action

Slip and trip risk assessment template, about this publication .

It is important to raise awareness with staff and pupils to make sure they understand how they can help prevent slips and trips.

Use this Slip and trip risk assessment template to make sure all hazards are effectively controlled.

Publishing information

From: Health and Safety Team

Published: October 2014

Word:  Slip and trip risk assessment template (Word doc) [73KB]

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology. If you need help to access this information within this file, please get in touch to request an accessible format .

Help us to improve this website

Contact | Subscribe | Media centre

• Lifting, pushing and pulling
• Psychosocial hazards
• Working at heights
• Crystalline silica and silicosis

Managing health and safety

• Identify, assess and control hazards
• Safety data sheets
• Personal protective equipment
• Emergency plans and procedures
• Incident reporting

Industry and business

• Construction
• Small business
• Agriculture
• Gig economy

The Commonwealth, states and territories regulate and enforce WHS laws.

Find your Regulator

Model WHS Laws

We created the model WHS laws in 2011.

• Model WHS Act
• Model WHS Regulations
• Duties under Model WHS laws
• Codes of Practice
• Legislation

WHS laws in your jurisdiction

Contact your regulator

Data and Research

We collect, analyse and publish data and information on work health and safety and workers' compensation.

See our data

• Work-related fatalities
• Work-related injuries
• Work-related diseases
• Return to Work
• Explore our data
• About our data
• Industry benchmarking
• Research by industry or topic

See our latest Key work health and safety statistics

explore our data

Workers' Compensation

We develop national policy and strategy about workers' compensation.

• Workers’ compensation
• Comparing workers' compensation in Australia
• National Return to Work Strategy
• Deemed diseases
• Permanent impairment
• Workers' compensation for psychological injury

Read the Strategy

Resources and Publications

We publish a wide range of resources covering many work health and safety topics.

• Codes of practice
• Video and audio
• Corporate publications

Media centre

• Media releases
• News update

Read our Codes of Practice

read the codes

Slips, trips and falls

Each year slips, trips and falls cause thousands of preventable injuries.

• Safety by topic

The most common ones are: 

• musculoskeletal injuries (injuries to muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage and spinal discs)
• dislocations. 

More serious injuries and deaths can also happen. 

Slip, trip and fall hazards 

Some things that can cause you to slip are: 

• the wrong footwear 
• polished, wet or greasy floors. 

In most cases, people trip on low obstacles that are hard to spot, such as: 

• uneven edges in flooring 
• loose mats 
• open drawers 
• untidy tools, or 
• electrical cables. 

Falls can result from a slip or trip, but many occur from low heights. For example: 

• ditches, or 
• wet or slippery surfaces. 

WHS duties  

As a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), you must always aim to eliminate the risk of slips, trips and falls, so far as is reasonably practicable. If that is not possible, you must minimise risks so far as is reasonably practicable. 

You must identify hazards, and assess and control risks. Think about your: 

• work areas 
• work procedures 
• equipment.  

Consulting with workers can help you find better and easier ways to identify and minimise risks. You should also review control measures to ensure they are working as planned.  

Workers also have duties, including taking reasonable care for their own health and safety. 

Managing risks  

The best way to manage the risk of slips, trips and falls is to eliminate hazards at the design stage of the workplace.  

If you can’t eliminate the risk, you must minimise it so far as is reasonably practicable. 

Designing safe workplaces 

In designing floors, stairs, lighting, drainage and storage: 

• keep floors at a single level and use slip-resistant floor coverings 
• install extra power points to avoid trip hazards from trailing cords 
• ensure all areas are well lit, particularly stairwells 
• have good drainage and slip resistant grates 
• have lots of storage, so things aren’t left in walkways. 

Safe work procedures 

Work procedures can also impact on the incidence of slips, trips and falls. Have clear procedures to: 

• remove rubbish to avoid trip hazards 
• return tools and other items to their storage areas after use 
• report and clean spills 

Keep the workplace clean 

All workers share responsibility for keeping the workplace clean and tidy.  

Make sure you: 

• have adequate rubbish and recycling bins 
• have cleaning schedules in place 
• dry floors after cleaning 
• don’t have cords on walkway or work area floors. 

Training helps workers become more aware of slip and trip hazards and helps to prevent injuries.  

Training should include:  

• awareness of slip and trip hazards 
• identifying effective control measures 
• duties of workers. 

Using personal protective equipment (PPE) 

As a PCBU, you should only use PPE: 

• after you have implemented all other possible control measures. 
• as an interim measure until you can use a better control measure 
• as a backup in addition to other control measures. 

Slip-resistant footwear 

Slip-resistant footwear is a type of PPE. 

Slip-resistant footwear should be appropriate for the work and workers must wear it properly. 

In wet conditions, the shoe sole tread should: 

• be deep enough to help penetrate the surface water 
• make direct contact with the floor. 

In dry conditions, the shoe sole tread: 

• pattern should be a flat bottom construction 
• should grip the floor with maximum contact area. 

Types of slip-resistant footwear 

Urethane and rubber soles are more slip resistant than vinyl and leather soles.  

Sole materials that have tiny cell like features are slip resistant. 

Supporting information

• Model Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks  
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the work environment and facilities 
• Slips and trips at the workplace fact sheet  
• The interactive safe work method statement (SWMS) tool provides information on preparing, using and reviewing SWMS for high risk construction work.

News related to this topic

01 Dec 2023 | News

Do you use labour hire?

Read more >

See all news

Further Advice

SWA is not a regulator and cannot advise you about WHS issues in the workplace. If you need help please contact your  state or territory work health and safety authority .

We develop national policy relating to WHS and workers' compensation.

Common Triggers of Slips, Trips, and Falls – And How To Avoid Them

Slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common causes of workplace injuries in the US, accounting for over 8 million emergency room treatments every year. While not all these incidents are severe, some will have serious consequences, such as bruises, strains, sprains, fractures, and head injuries.

In many cases, a slip or fall can make it difficult for you to move around, do everyday activities, or live as independently as you used to. It could even force you to take a few days or weeks off work, which will affect your income and productivity. 

“Slips, trips, and falls can be frustrating, embarrassing, painful, and costly to you and your family. These accidents often leave victims hospitalized for days or weeks while the utility bills, medical bills, and other expenses collect at your doorstep,” says Alex Bouganim and Joseph Capetola, slip and fall lawyers in NYC . 

What To Do If You Slip, Trip, Or Fall

Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen, and it is crucial that you know what to do in this kind of situation so you can manage it in the best way possible. One of the first steps is to immediately seek medical attention, especially if the fall was quite hard and you are feeling pain anywhere in your body. 

Injuries may not always be apparent, and a doctor can help determine specific problems and recommend the proper treatment. Aside from this, a trip to the doctor can help establish credibility if you decide to file a personal injury case or claim compensation against whoever was liable for the accident.

However, if you experience difficulty moving around, do not force yourself to get up right away and look for someone to help you instead. For severe trauma or injury, it is best to call an ambulance and stay in place until they arrive since any sudden movement could aggravate the damage to your body. 

Finally, remember to report the incident to the property owner or manager or get someone to do it for you if you cannot move around freely, and make sure that there is proper documentation to help you establish evidence when you claim compensation. It is also a good idea to consult with a legal expert for specific guidance on what to do after a slip and fall accident since the actual steps to do may vary depending on the location and circumstances of the accident. 

Common Causes And How To Avoid Them

Awareness is vital in preventing you from becoming a victim of these accidents. When you know the causes of slips, trips, and falls, it becomes easier to avoid them and you can even prevent them from happening to others. Take a look at these common triggers of slips, trips, and falls and what you can do about them:

1. Poor Lighting

Poor lighting can make it difficult to see hazards and other dangers, such as stairs, curbs, or wet and slippery surfaces, increasing your risk of slipping or falling. If you have poor vision, this is even more of a problem because the dim and dark surroundings can hide any obstructions in your path and prevent you from taking evasive action to avoid getting tripped.

To prevent slip and fall accidents due to poor lighting, ensure that all walkways are well-lit, especially in areas with high foot traffic or potential hazards. Install adequate lighting sources, such as overhead lighting or task lighting in darker areas, and immediately replace light bulbs when they burn out. 

2. Slippery Or Uneven Surfaces

One of the most common triggers of slips, trips, and falls are slippery or uneven surfaces because they can cause you to lose your footing easily. These are often caused by ice, snow, water, oil or grease, sand, mud or dirt, loose gravels or stones, and man-made causes like waxed floors, which could become slippery due to spills or leaks. 

Fortunately, there are many ways you can avoid falling victim to these triggers, and wearing proper footwear is at the top of the list. Shoes with good traction and non-slip soles can help prevent slips and falls, while smooth or worn-out soles can increase your risk. Take extra precautions by immediately cleaning up any spills or wet areas, using non-slip mats in areas prone to getting wet, such as bathrooms or kitchens, and being careful when walking on freshly cleaned or waxed floors. 

3. Mats And Rugs

When not correctly displayed or maintained, mats and rugs can result in a slip or trip, especially for an unsuspecting passerby. For example, curled-up edges or lumps in the middle of a rug could entangle your feet and cause you to lose your balance. It is also highly possible for a loose and unsecured rug to slip out of place right when you step on it, leading to a nasty fall and an injury. 

To prevent rugs and mats from becoming a tripping hazard, ensure they are properly secured and maintained. Regularly inspect them for signs of wear and tear, and immediately replace any rugs that are frayed, have holes, or are lumped in certain parts. Keep them completely flat, with no bumps or curls on the edges, and use non-slip pads underneath so they stay firmly in place.

4. Excessive Clutter

Aside from being a tripping hazard, clutter can also cause fires, which is why it is essential to do regular housekeeping to prevent these incidents from occurring. Excessive clutter like books, shoes, toys, cords, loose rugs, and stacks of newspapers on the floor create environmental hazards that impede movement and result in blockages that hinder people from walking safely.

You can minimize the occurrence of these incidents by making sure that all walkways, hallways, and stairways are always clear of clutter. Keep your space organized, secure loose cords, and use storage solutions such as shelves, cabinets, or drawers to keep items off the floors and tables. 

5. Uneven Or Poorly Built Stairs

Stairs that are damaged or not built according to safety standards can lead to serious injuries, especially if you fall from a higher level. This includes stairways with no handrails covered in dirt and debris or have broken, loose, uneven, or missing steps. Aside from these, obstructions like boxes or clutter on the steps can also cause people to trip and fall.

You can reduce the risk of slipping firstly by ensuring that your stairs are built according to strict guidelines , with the stair slope maximum range being from 30 to 50 degrees. As an additional preventive measure, you can install non-slip surfaces on the stairs, such as rubber or slip-resistant paint, and ensure that stairways are well-lit and have a clear path by removing any items left on the steps like shoes or work equipment that can create potential hazards. Carpeted stairs should also be in good condition with no noticeable deterioration, excessive wear, or missing treads.

The post Common Triggers of Slips, Trips, and Falls – And How To Avoid Them appeared first on What's Trending .