S-STAF Slips, Trips and Falls

Slips, Trips, and Falls Guidelines

• Slips, trips, and falls have historically accounted for 30% of Infrastructure and Development Services loss time injuries.
• Hundreds of workers die, and thousands become disabled from falls on the job every year.

Hazard Recognition

• Firefighters must maintain situational awareness at emergency incidents to identify potential hazards, including darkness, uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, and obstructions.
• Situational awareness should be stressed to all firefighters operating at incidents, regardless of location or task.
• If visibility is diminished, stop, take a knee if required, orientate yourself, and call out to your partner/crew before moving.

Precautions to Avoid Slips, Trips, and Falls

• Watch where you are going, avoid areas with poor lighting, and pre-plan your route of travel.
• Remove obstacles, carry items in a way that won't throw you off balance, and report any concerns or hazards to your supervisor.
• Inspectors should check for tripping and fall hazards, and report any hazards for immediate correction.

Walking

• Look before you walk, make sure your pathway is clear, and proceed with extra caution at unfamiliar premises.
• Use slip-resistant footwear, and place your foot completely on the step when using stairs.
• Anticipate falls and prepare for them.

Walking – Outdoors

• Beware of materials or debris that you can trip over, and be cautious of hills, embankments, irregular ground, and slippery conditions.
• Be mindful of loads that block vision, and avoid stumbling while carrying heavy items.

Ladders

• Use ladders with non-skid feet, and tie off the ladder or have someone support the base.
• Never stand on the top two rungs of the ladder, and don't overreach to the sides.
• Always fully extend stepladder legs and lock them before use.

Floor and Wall Openings and Holes

• Exercise vigilance when working on roofs, and ensure three points of contact for stability.
• Place covers and/or guardrails to protect employees from falling into holes or pits.
• Make sure lighting is adequate, and replace burned-out bulbs promptly.

Housekeeping

• Clean up grease, oil, and debris whenever noticed, and report accidental spills immediately.
• Ensure good water drainage in parking areas and walkways, and eliminate standing water.
• Make sure walkways and stairs are free of obstructions and debris, and report loose carpeting and damaged floors for prompt maintenance.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Workers should inspect and wear equipment provided by the employer, and report any defects to their supervisor.

Hazard Reporting

• If a slip, trip, or fall hazard has been identified, report it to your supervisor immediately.
• The supervisor shall conduct an investigation to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions if necessary.