PREVENTING SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS
5 Steps You Can Take to Increase Workplace Safety
Every year, thousands of workers suffer injuries from slips, trips, and falls - many of which are preventable. As we recognize Safe + Sound Week, a nationwide event held by OSHA to celebrate workplace safety programs, it’s the perfect time to reassess your workplace safety measures and reduce risk where it counts the most.
Why it Matters
.According to the National Safety Council (NSC) and OSHA:
- Slips, trips, and falls are the second leading cause of workplace injuries.
- They result in over 240,000 nonfatal injuries annually in the U.S.
- The average worker injured in a fall misses 12+ days of work.
- Fall-related injuries cost employers over $70 billion each year in medical expenses and productivity loss.
These aren’t minor incidents. They’re costly, disruptive, and often avoidable.
5 Steps You Can Take to Prevent Accidents Before They Happen
Creating a safer workplace requires attention to detail in everyday operations. Here are key strategies for preventing incidents before they happen:
1. Use Proper Signage
- Place wet floor signs after cleaning or spills.
- Clearly mark ramps, uneven surfaces, and changes in elevation.
- Ensure signs are easy to see and placed in well-lit areas.
2. Keep Walkways Clear
- Remove clutter, cords, or obstacles from all paths.
- Store tools and materials properly and in a designated space.
- Avoid overloading shelves that could fall or block access.
3. Improve Lighting
- Replace burned-out bulbs right away.
- Install motion-activated lighting in less-used areas.
- Make sure all entrances, stairways, and outdoor areas are well-lit.
4. Maintain and Clean Floor Surfaces
- Repair damaged floors, loose tiles, or lifted carpets promptly.
- Use non-slip coatings or tapes where necessary.
- Clean spills immediately using proper methods that don't leave slippery residue.
Lechner Services offers the supplies you need to keep your floors sanitized. From mops to cleaning chemicals, our managed inventory service ensures you always have the proper tools for proper floor maintenance.
5. Use Floor Mats Effectively
- Place entrance mats to trap dirt and moisture.
- Use mats to mark safe walking zones or changes in flooring.
- Install anti-fatigue mats in standing areas, and replace worn mats regularly.
Lechner offers a floor mat service to keep your floors clean, dry & safe. Read on to learn more about the benefits of a managed mat laundry program!
Let's Take A Deeper Dive: How Floor Mats Reduce Fall Risks
As a provider of commercial floor mat services, we’ve seen how a strategic mat program can significantly reduce fall-related incidents:
✔ Moisture Control
Entrance mats capture 85% of all dirt and moisture from shoes, effectively reducing slippery surfaces! This is especially important during seasons where there is rain or snow that can be tracked indoors.
✔ Safety Zone Marking
You can also use mats to define safe walk zones or alert workers to changes in flooring levels or hazardous areas. We have a variety of standard safety mats, as well as the ability to fully customize a mat to display your message.
✔ Anti-Fatigue Support
In workstations or areas with prolonged standing, anti-fatigue mats help improve posture and can reduce slip-related fatigue.
✔ Routine Cleaning & Replacement
Dirty, curled, or worn mats can create hazards. Our mat programs include regular laundering and replacement to ensure mats always perform at their best. Plus, our mats are heavy-duty to ensure they stay put.
Accidents Happen. Be Ready When They Do.
Even with the best prevention plan, accidents can still occur. Having the right first aid supplies on hand is essential for a quick, compliant response.
We provide and maintain OSHA-compliant first aid stations that include:
Essential First Aid Supplies:
- Bandages, antiseptics, cold packs, gloves, and more.
Restocking Services:
- We inspect, restock, and maintain your first aid cabinets regularly so you're always prepared.
First Aid Awareness:
- Employees should know where first aid cabinets are located (and how to use the contents). We offer first aid training to ensure employees are always prepared for an emergency.
Let’s Work Together to Keep Your Workplace Safe
From floor to first aid, we’re here to support your commitment to safety - during Safe + Sound Week and beyond.
✔ Custom cleaning & mat service programs
✔ OSHA-compliant first aid stations
✔ Safety audits and scheduled maintenance
✔ Industry-specific recommendations
Need help getting started? Contact us for a free facility safety consultation.