Every Step Matters: Preventing Workplace Slips, Trips, and Falls

By Tyler Doupe'

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most commonly reported workplace injuries. In 2024 alone, this class of injury resulted in a staggering 844 fatalities. With that said, slips, trips, and falls are also among the most preventable on-the-job mishaps. Taking a proactive approach can help circumvent the vast majority of these workplace incidents. But how does one go about preventing slips, trips, and falls in the workplace? I’m glad you asked, dear reader.

There are a few best practices organizations can adopt to minimize the likelihood of a walking- or working-surface injury. Let’s run them down, shall we?

A great starting point is creating a spill response policy. Make sure that employees know that all spills must be cleaned up immediately. If immediate cleanup is not feasible, then the area should be cordoned off to prevent injury.

Keep Paths Clear of Clutter

Another crucial step is to keep walking paths, exits, and aisles clear of debris and clutter. Employers should make sure that workers understand that staging materials in the aforementioned spaces might seem convenient in the moment but ultimately presents a workplace hazard that can easily lead to serious injury.

Now that you’ve implemented a spill response policy and established exits, aisles, andfall protection walking paths as storage-free zones, you’re well on your way to ensuring a safer workplace, but you’re not done yet. You’ll also want to make sure to cover any cords present on walking surfaces with cord covers.  Staging cords on non-walking surfaces is always preferable, but in those instances where that isn’t an option, keeping them adequately covered will help mitigate fall risk.

Slip Resistance Is Key

Yet another best practice is to make slip-resistant shoes part of the required dress code and place slip-resistant mats at places where employees transition between different walking surfaces or anywhere that slippery conditions are likely to occur.

I’d also be remiss if I neglected to mention the importance of good lighting. Ensure that burnt out bulbs are reported and replaced posthaste. When employees can see where they are going, they are much less likely to trip over a lurking hazard cloaked in a shroud of darkness. 

Never Underestimate the Importance of an Effective Fall Protection Program

Next, employers should make sure that a fall protection program is in place and actively enforced. When employees are working at heights, they should always utilize fall protection methods, including, but not limited to, fall arrest systems, safety nets, and guardrails.

With the steps outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to reducing slips, trips, and falls within your organization. For more on the subject, make sure to check out OSHAcademy Course 114: Walking-Working Surfaces and Fall Protection.