Safety Matters

Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common causes of workplace injuries in Nova Scotia, accounting for more than 20 per cent of all time loss claims in recent years.

Slip, trip and fall injuries happen all year round in lots of different work environments, including retail, food and beverage, transport, construction and manufacturing.

Recent prevention measures aimed at reducing the risk of COVID-19 may increase the risk of slip and fall injuries, as frequent hand washing protocols and new hand washing stations on work sites could result in more water splashed onto walking surfaces.

As workplaces adjust their safety practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it’s important to ensure that all risks continue to be well managed.

The good news is that there’s lots workplaces can do to reduce the risk of slip and fall injuries.

Inside the workplace be sure to:

• Clean up spills right away, and post a hazard sign
• Make sure cords and cables don’t cross walking paths
• Keep file drawers closed, and keep hallways and stairwells clear
• Only carry what you can safely handle

Outside the workplace make sure to:

• Maintain three points of contact when entering and exiting vehicles or equipment
• Make sure outdoor work areas have adequate lighting
• Wear shoes with a non-slip tread
• Have a plan to manage ice and snow removal

You can find a full list of slip, trip, and fall prevention tips, here.

The worksafeforlife.ca Slips, Trips and Falls prevention page also offers a range of helpful tools and resources, including videos, a discussion guide, posters and more.

For other tips and resources on working safely during COVID-19, visit worksafeforlife.ca/COVID19.