The Slips, Trips and Falls (STF) Prevention Program aims to reduce the risk of STF incidents in the workplace through comprehensive evaluation, training, and implementation of control measures.
Perform and document a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential hazards and work tasks that cause or contribute to STF-related injuries. Review the loss history and incident investigations to gain insight into the nature and trends of STF incidents.
Complete a risk assessment to identify STF exposures, resulting in a written list of known STF hazards/risk factors and mitigations. All hazards capable of causing slips, trips, and falls — from the same level as well as from heights — should be included. Evaluate the adequacy of current engineering, administrative, and personal protective equipment (PPE) controls.
Conduct quarterly inspections to identify specific slip, trip, and fall hazards. Document each inspection in writing and include mitigation actions.
Identify, develop, and prioritize risk-reduction actions using a systems-based approach to control STF exposures, using loss data and workplace evaluation results.
Update STF controls as necessary to meet changing conditions, non-routine tasks, and scope of operations. Monitor the workplace for changing conditions as warranted.
Provide the resources necessary to implement, improve, and maintain the STF program.
Investigate STF incidents and near-misses to determine if additional engineering, administrative, or PPE controls or training may be needed.
Risk assessments should consider hazard areas that may include, but are not limited to:
Ladders, lifts & fall protection
Annual ladder inspections
Step ladders
Extension ladders
Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs)
Fall protection
Aerial lifts
Scissor lifts
Scaffolding
Mezzanines
Lofts
Elevated trailers
Flooring & ground conditions
Inside flooring
Inside floor conditions (wet floors)
Outside ground conditions / potholes
Floor gaps
Holes
Cracks
Condition of rugs
Housekeeping
Air hoses
Cords
Structures & access points
Stairs
Stairwells
Handrails
Guards
Self-closing gates
Catwalks
Curbs and curb stops
Sidewalks
Main and employee entrances
Loading docks
Window openings
Patio door openings
Roofs
Outside downspouts
Weather, equipment & other
Snow and ice
Seasonal (summer/winter) assessment
Rail cars
Mounting and dismounting equipment
Footwear
Lighting
Conduct annual training sessions to educate employees about the STF hazards specific to their workplace and job duties.
Ensure the safety coordinate and any employees involved in program implementation completed WSI’s Slips, Trips and Falls Program online course within the first 90 days of the eligible policy period when selecting the STF Program for the first time.
LMS Access: Email [email protected] for assistance accessing this course through WSI's Learning Management System.