Slips, trips and falls account for the vast majority of workplace injuries in Montana. Common causes run the gamut from exposed tripping hazards like cords to a lack of snow removal in winter to using ladders inappropriately. Common injuries run the gamut as well from bruises to breaks to debilitating back injuries. Fortunately slip, trip and fall hazards all have one thing in common — they are easy to mitigate.
Mitigation begins by identifying likely hazards, such as loose stair treads, broken equipment, blocked aisles and improper clean up. Next, have your safety committee address each one thoroughly in a planned fashion. Finally embrace a culture of safety where people look for issues and report them before they cause injury.
Most of STF prevention is about common sense and a willingness to mitigate issues, still it can be helpful to have an objective eye. At Montana State Fund, we survey customer workplaces and create hazard mitigation lists free of charge at policyholder request.
Safety Tips and Resources:
A Guide to Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention
Slips, Trips and Falls 1: Transitions, Snow Removal, Storage
Slips, Trips and Falls 2: Sweeping, Shoes, Stairs, Snow Piles
Slips, Trips and Falls 3: Floors, Hazards, Mats
