Slips, Trips and Falls

A Risk Management Initiative to Keep Fairfax County Employees and Residents Safe and Injury Free.

» Use fall protection when working six feet or more above ground level.

» Stay on established walking paths – don’t use shortcuts.

» Always follow safety rules.

» Some work sites require special footwear (safety shoes).

» Replace damaged/worn soles before they become a slip/trip or fall hazard.

» Don’t let your shoes trip you up.

» Clean up spills immediately. » Alert others to spills—surround spills with

containment barriers & post/place wet floor/caution signs around spill area.

» Clearly mark/sign any hazards that cannot be removed immediately.

» Have buckets close to areas where drips or leaks occur.

» Do not obstruct walkways, stairways and exits.

» Do not use walkways, stairways and exit pathways for storage.

» Do not run wires, hoses, cables, etc. across walkways.

» Do not throw trash on the floor; put in receptacles.

» Use appropriate step stool/step ladder, not a chair, to reach objects above your head

» Check walking working structures for soundness—report and repair damaged structures prior to use.

» Use handrails.

» Take one step at a time.

» Be sure you can see where you are going.

» Don’t run up or down stairs.

» Report broken stairs, hand rails and loose stair coverings.

» Keep pathways clear of cords, clutter, or boxes – they are a tripping hazard.

» Keep floors clear of small objects like pens or paper clips – they are a slipping hazard.

» Close cabinet doors and drawers immediately – they are a tripping hazard.

» Replace non-working light bulbs.

» Tuck chin in, turn head, twist and roll into the side of the fall.

» Use your arm to protect your head.

» Try to avoid breaking the fall with your hands or elbows.

» Spread out the impact, let shoulders, buttocks and legs absorb the shock.

» Keep wrists, arms, and knees bent and relaxed.

» If you think you are injured, do not move; call for help.

See a Hazard, Stop an Injury Hotline Call 703-324-HZRD (4973)

If you slip, trip or fall, make sure you report the incident to your supervisor.