Slips and falls the third leading cause of workplace injuries

Slips and falls are the third leading cause of work-related injuries, following driving accidents and workplace violence. Ninety percent of slips and falls are a result of inattention by the person walking. The remaining 10 percent are due to physical hazards, such as a slippery floor or electrical cord.

Missouri Employers Mutual Insurance (MEM) is addressing these and other work-related risks during WorkSAFESM Week 2000. Proclaimed by Gov. Mel Carnahan for June 5-9, WorkSAFE Week is an important step toward the prevention of workplace injuries. It teaches both employers and employees how to Work Smart in an Accident-Free Environment.

“By making employees more aware of physical hazards in the workplace, the number of slips, trips and falls can be greatly reduced,” says Vice President of Loss Prevention Bob Gibson. “Every employer should make a commitment to picking up materials in the walking path.”

Here are a few tips to prevent slips and falls while on the job:

* Keep all walking surfaces clean. This includes cleaning up any grease or oil that may have leaked from forklifts, hand trucks or other heavy equipment.

* Be conscious of the type of wax that is applied to walking surfaces.

Contaminated wax can cause surfaces to become extremely slick.

* Wear proper footwear, including shoes with nonskid soles and rubber heels. Remove any grease, oil or other residue that may have collected on them.

* Don’t leave materials such as boxes or electrical cords in the walking path.

* Carry only what you can handle and get help when needed.

* Pace yourself and allow yourself the time you need so you won’t have to hurry or run.

* Be alert and watch where you are going. Watch out for falling hazards that others might miss.