Slips, trips and falls can result in strains, sprains, contusions, fractures and other serious injuries.  For the 2018-2019 school year, a slip, trip and fall injury accounted for 25% of the employee injury claims filed.

Here are a few tips to help prevent slip, trip and fall injuries.

1. Practice good housekeeping procedures:

  • Keep floors clear by putting away supplies when finished.
  • Keep file drawers shut when not in use.
  • Encourage students to keep backpacks, coats, books and other belongings off the floor and out of walkways.
  • Clean up spills immediately.
  • Secure extension cords to the floor when in use.
  • Whenever floor cleaning is underway, be sure to use “Caution, Wet Floor” signs.

2. Pay attention to where you are walking.  It is simple, but it can save you from falling.

  • Avoid carrying loads that are awkward or block your view.
  • Watch for potential hazards such as backpacks or boxes left in walkways, changes in walking surface elevation, mats/rugs that won’t lay flat, holes outside and bumper stops in parking lots.
  • Avoid becoming distracted by using a cellphone or reading while you are walking.
  • Turn on lights so you can see trip hazards in your path.

3. Take your time and don’t rush. Inattention occurs when you are in a hurry.

4. Use handrails, particularly on steps and ramps.

5. Wear proper footwear depending on the surfaces you encounter.

6. Report hazardous areas, so the slip or trip hazard can be corrected.  It takes a team to keep our schools safe.