S a f e t y T o o l b o x T o p i c s

Slips, trips and falls is the number 1 reason for an industrial injury in the United States. Thousands of disabling injuries—and even deaths—occur each year as a result of slips, trips, and falls:

• From heights, on stairs, and on level ground

• At work and at home

Pay Attention to Your Movements and Surroundings

• Focus on where you're going, what you're doing, and what lies ahead.
• Expect the unexpected.
• Take responsibility for fixing, removing, or avoiding hazards in your path.
• Wear sturdy shoes with nonskid soles and flat heels.
• Avoid baggy or loose pants you could trip over.
• Walk, don't run.
• Wipe your feet when you come in from rain or snow.
• Report or replace any burned out lights or inadequate lighting.
• Watch out for floors that are uneven, have holes, etc.
• Keep your hands at your sides, not in your pockets, for balance.
• Don't carry loads you can't see over.
• Walk slowly on slippery surfaces. —Slide your feet and avoid sharp turns.
• Sit in chairs with all four chair legs on the floor.
• Make sure all wheels or casters are on the floor.
• Be constantly alert for—and remove or go around—obstructions in your path.