SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS

INTERNET CONNECTION AND SOUND IS REQUIRED FOR THIS TRAINING

*once you have completed this training module you will be directed to the HCDSB Employee Self Service Portal to acknowledge your training

Slips Trips and Falls

Slips, trips and

falls, whether on

or off the job are

expensive,

disruptive, painful,

and may even be

tragic

Why Do We Slip?

We slip when there

is too little traction

or friction between

the foot and the

walking surface

surface

Causes of Slips

Slip hazards exist when:

• not enough friction between your feet and the walking surface, and

• you lose your balance

• technically the coefficient of friction and its “Slip Resistance Factor” is not high enough

Slip resistance depends on

the things like:

• walking surface,

• soles of your shoes, and

• presence of foreign

materials between walking

surface and your footwear

Why Do We Trip?

Change in the elevation

of the walking surface

(e.g. buckled carpet)

Unseen object in path of

travel

(e.g. box on floor, cord

on walkway)

Why Do We Fall?

We fall when our center of mass moves

outside the area of support and we cannot shift it back

Usually, when there is an unexpected change in the walking

surface

There are many factors to

consider:

Types of Injuries from Slips

Trips and Falls:

• Broken bones

• Concussions

• Muscle tear

• Bruises

#1 by eliminating

workplace hazards

and

#2 by people taking

proper action to

work safely.

Most Slip, Trip and Fall injuries

can be prevented:

VIDEO

SLIPS TRIPS AND FALLS - SCHOOL CLASSROOM

Preventing Slips Trips and

Falls in the Classroom: • Wear appropriate footwear for the

task

• Maintain good housekeeping -

ensure walkways are clear of

hazards (cords, boxes, backpacks,

liquids etc.)

• Report hazards to your supervisor

immediately

• Keep items within reach or use CSA

approved stepladders - never stand

on desk or chairs

What are some other ways you can prevent slips, trips and falls in your

classroom?

Student chairs are not built for adults,

we have had many serious injuries

involving adults sitting/standing on

student chairs.

CSA approved ladders must be

available.

FALLS from LADDERS

Safe ladder use includes . . .

• Proper Ladder SELECTION (CSA – Type 1)

• Pre-Use and Post-Use INSPECTION

• Proper Ladder SET-UP

• Safe CLIMBING Technique

• Safety while WORKING on a Ladder

* Employees working above 3m/10 feet must

have Ministry of Labour approved training on

Working at Heights

VIDEO SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS - SCHOOL STAIRS

Preventing Slips

Trips and Falls on

School Stairs:

What are some ways you

can prevent slips, trips and

falls on the stairs?

Preventing Slips, Trips and

Falls on Stairs:

• Walk don’t run

• Always use handrails

• Wear appropriate footwear (low heal, rubber sole)

• Take one step at a time

• Ensure adequate lighting

• Always keep stairs free of grease, oil and obstacles

VIDEO SLIPS TRIPS AND FALLS - SCHOOL CUSTODIAN

Behaviours that lead to Falls

• Walking too fast or running

• Changing direction too

quickly

• Not looking where we are

going distracted

• Carrying materials that

obstruct our vision

• Wearing sunglasses in low-

light areas

• Not using handrails

Summary - General Slip, Trip

and Fall Prevention: • Be aware of changes in elevation and changes in walking surfaces (carpet to

tile, wet to dry etc.)

• When carrying things, make sure you can still see your path, get help or use a cart when carrying heavy or awkward objects

• Remove or report unsafe conditions that could result in a slip/trip or fall such as spills, electric cords, frayed carpet etc.

• Maintain outside walking areas free of ice, snow and woodchips

• Anticipate slippery areas, don’t rush, plan ahead, make people aware (signs/announcements)

• Keep aisles, halls, stairways and walkways clear of slip trip and fall hazards

• Never stand on desk, chairs or any other unstable items to reach something – all schools have stepladders.

When choosing appropriate

footwear consider the following: • Consider type of activity and protection required (ie- winter boots for

outdoor duties/activities, steel toe if there is a risk of injury to toes)

• Snug fit with enclosed toe/heal

• Flat shoes or shoes with a minimal heel

• No skid or slip resistant sole

Inappropriate footwear:

• Flip flops or beach shoes

• Slippers

• Plastic/gummy shoes

• Shoes with spiked heels or platforms greater than 1 inch

Questions?

Kimberly George

Health and Safety Officer georgek@hcdsb.org

905-632-6300 Ext. 174