Slip and Fall

As you might expect, some of the more frequent accidents at a business site is a slip and fall or trips. Regardless if you are running an apartment complex, auto repair, or restaurant, this is a real hazard. Be informed and look to find ways to mitigate your exposure to this form of injury.

Here are some helpful tips to consider:

General Tips:

Whether you are looking out for the welfare of your employees or customers/clients who visit your location, these tips can assist you in reducing the number of slip, trip and fall injuries that occur at your business location.

Think about these ideas:

1. Make that parking areas, stairs, and walkways have proper lighting.
2. Do not allow your storm gutters to drain out onto your walkways.
   
3. If there is a reported spill, clean it immediately.
   
4. If any form of flooring becomes loose or torn, replace or fix it immediately.
   
5. If there is snow or ice, create removal plans for your sidewalks, stairs, and parking areas.
   
6. Repair potholes or uneven surfaces in your parking area.

Stairways, Steps and Ramps:

Think about these tips :

1. Install handrails on stairways and ramps that meet the safety code for your area.
   
2. Make sure your handrails are stable and secure.
   
3. Consider using non-slip surfaces on your stairs (e.g. carpet).

Walkways and lawn areas:

Think about these tips :

1. Repair cracks, bumps or uneven surfaces on you sidewalks.
   
2. Do not leave maintenance equipment out (e.g. ladders).
   
3. Remove any obstructions from walkways and sidewalks.
   
4. Drain your sprinkler systems when the temperature nears freezing.

Other important considerations:

Think about these tips :

1. Have a trained manager on duty at all times.
   
2. Post emergency phone numbers.
   
3. Keep properly stocked first aid kits handy and ready for use.
   
4. Investigate incidents and keep a good record

Investigation reports should aid in your documentation and should include the managers on staff, the date/time of incident, the injured parties contact information and a good narrative of the occurrence.