7 slipping hazards lurking on your premises
When we head to work each day, a slip-and fall-accident is probably the last thing on our minds—but, in fact, such incidents are much more common than we realize. According to statistics, 62.8 per cent of occupational accidents are caused by three types of accidents, and slip-and-fall is one of the most common workplace accidents in Malaysia.1
In addition to having a formal ‘slip, trip, and fall’ prevention program in place, there are also steps you and your staff can take to ensure these types of accidents don’t occur. Here are the top seven places to look for slip-and-fall hazards.
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Our feet
The shoes we wear at work can play an important role in preventing slip-and-fall accidents. Always choose footwear that is compatible with the flooring surfaces at your premises.
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Staircases
A number of factors can contribute to staircase accidents, including:
- Irregular steps
- Poor lighting
- Objects left on stairs
- Improper or broken handrails
- A step in an unexpected place
Make sure to always take your time on the stairs and use caution if you spot any of the signs above.
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Escalators
Escalator steps are not the correct height for normal walking, which increases the risk for a slip, trip, or fall. Do not use escalators as stairs when they are not operating.
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Walkways
Walkways may crack due to settling surfaces, storm damage, or the action of tree roots. They can also collect puddles. Be especially cautious when walking outside in bad weather, and alert the building authorities if you see these hazards so they can improve the slip resistance of the surfaces.
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Ramps
Slip-and-fall accidents are common on ramps as they can get slippery when it rains or snows, making the increased slope difficult to navigate. And don’t get caught off-guard by a ramp with a low rise—especially when it has no handrails.
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Parking lots
When navigating the parking lot at work, watch out for:
- Irregular surfaces
- Speed bumps (if your premises have them, see below)
- Inadequate lighting
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Speed bumps and wheel stops
Speed bumps and wheel stops can be a tripping hazard. If your workplace access road and parking lot has these features, navigate with caution. They should be painted a bright color and properly placed.
Most importantly, if you do see a potential slip-and-fall hazard in your premises, correct it immediately. The sooner it is rectified, the safer your premises will be.
1 Big Data Analytics: National Occupational Accident Statistics 2020
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