Key points
Slips, trips, and falls are common causes of injuries. Employers can provide young workers with information to stay safe on the job. Resources are available to engage young workers with safety.
Why it's an issue
Young workers can slip when they lose their footing. They can trip when catching their foot on or in something, and they can fall when using a ladder. Common causes of slips, trips, and falls include:
- Spills
- Greasy floors
- Ice
- Snow and rain
- Loose mats or rugs
- Ladders
Did you know?
Falls from portable ladders are one of the leading causes of work-related deaths and injuries. Poor lighting and clutter can also cause injuries such as sprains, bruises, fractures, scratches, and cuts.
Tips to stay safe
Employers can remind young workers to:
- Clean up spills and anything slippery. Check with supervisors about how to use cleaning products. Don't use cleaners that could make the floor slippery.
- Clear walkways, stairs, and lobbies of anything that might be a tripping hazard (e.g., cords, wires, empty boxes, clutter).
- Make sure that floor mats lay flat rather than wrinkled or bunched.
- Use handrails when walking up and down steps.
- Make sure any stepladder or ladder is fully open before using it.
- Check that ladder extensions are locked and that the ladder legs are stable on a flat, non-slippery surface.
- Clean off any slippery material on the rungs, steps, or feet of a ladder before use.
- Don't go over the load limit noted on the ladder.
Talking Safety curriculum
Research shows that more needs to be done to ensure that as young people join the workforce they are better protected from hazards. This free, engaging curriculum is intended for use in classrooms and other group settings.
Content Source:
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health