According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of injuries and fatalities on construction sites. November is National Slips, Trips, & Falls Prevention Month, which is dedicated to raising awareness and educating workers on how to prevent these types of accidents. To be able to properly do so, it is also important to know what the top causes can lead to these high-risk incidents. Uneven surfaces, slippery materials, and lack of fall protection are some of the most common causes, but there are also other factors that can or cannot be controlled. In this blog, we will discuss the top causes of slips, trips, and falls on construction sites and how they can be prevented.
Uneven Surfaces Can Throw Workers Off Balance or Create a Tripping Hazard
One of the most common causes of slips, trips, and falls on construction sites is uneven surfaces. They can be caused by unfinished flooring, uneven ground, or debris left on walkways. If workers are walking over or carrying heavy materials on these surfaces, they can quickly lose their balance or trip.
How to Prevent This: Not all uneven surfaces can be avoided on construction sites, but there are ways to minimize the risks. Workers should always wear appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles and be cautious when walking on uneven surfaces. There should also be signs and guardrails in place to warn workers of potential hazards.
Spills, Rain, & Debris Can Create Slippery Conditions
Slippery surfaces are another major cause of slips, trips, and falls on construction sites. Spills from materials such as grease, oil, or water can make surfaces extremely slippery and dangerous to walk on. Rain, tracked-in mud, and debris left on walkways can also become hazards.
How to Prevent This: Regularly cleaning and maintaining walkways and work areas can help prevent slippery conditions. Workers should also be trained to clean up spills immediately and use caution when walking on wet surfaces. If there is a storm in the forecast, tarps and covers should be used to protect walkways from rain.
Lack of Proper Lighting Can Limit Visibility
Poor lighting can also contribute to slips, trips, and falls on construction sites. If your crew is working late at night, underground, or in an area with limited natural lighting, it can be difficult to see potential hazards.
How to Prevent This: Place lighting throughout the work site, including stairways, walkways, and other high-traffic areas. Depending on the task at hand, consider battery or solar-powered lighting options. It is also important to regularly check and replace any broken or burnt-out lights.
Broken or Outdated Safety Equipment Does Not Provide Full Protection
Slips, trips, and falls can be inevitable at times. In these cases, it is important to have proper fall protection equipment and gear to minimize the risk of injury. However, this equipment may not provide the necessary protection if it is outdated or faulty. Worn-out harnesses, damaged lanyards, and ineffective guardrails can all lead to severe injuries in the event of a fall.
How to Prevent This: Regularly inspect and maintain all safety equipment to ensure it is up-to-date and functioning properly. If you notice that any equipment is damaged, it should be immediately repaired or replaced. Additionally, thorough training should be provided on properly using and maintaining safety equipment so that workers understand its importance and use it correctly.
Contact Atlantic Equipment for High-Quality Fall Protection & Construction Safety Equipment in NY, MD, FL, MA, & More
At Atlantic Equipment, your safety is our priority. We offer a wide range of high-quality fall protection and construction safety equipment to help prevent slips, trips, and falls on your work site. From fall arrest kits to safety rail systems, we have everything you need to keep your workers safe and minimize the risk of injuries. Our team of experts can also provide delivery and maintenance services to ensure your equipment is always up-to-date and functioning properly. Contact us today to learn more about our products and get a pricing quote online or at 800-543-3350!