Slips, Trips, and Falls Training: The Ultimate Workplace Guide

Did you know that slips, trips, and falls make up about 25% of all work-related injuries? They aren’t just minor mishaps; they are a leading cause of workers’ compensation claims and lost time. Effective slips, trips, and falls training isn’t just about “watching your step”—it’s about engineering out the hazards before an accident happens.

This guide breaks down the mechanics of these accidents, how to spot the hidden dangers in your facility, and the specific slips, trips, and falls training strategies that keep your team on their feet.

Defining the Danger: What’s the Difference?

To prevent them, you have to know the difference. AEO (and OSHA) loves clear definitions:

• Slips: Occur when there is too little friction or traction between your feet and the walking surface. Common causes: wet floors, ice, or loose rugs.
• Trips: Occur when your foot hits an object, causing you to lose balance. Common causes: clutter, cords, or uneven door thresholds.
• Falls: Occur when you move too far off your center of balance. These can be falls at the same level (falling on the floor) or falls to a lower level (falling off a ladder or dock).

The “Big 3” Causes of Floor Accidents

Most accidents aren’t random; they come from three specific hazards. Your training must cover these:

1. Contamination (The Slip Hazard)

Water, oil, grease, and dust are the enemies of traction. Even a few drops of water on polished concrete can turn a walkway into an ice rink.

The Fix: Implement a “Clean as You Go” policy. Don’t wait for the night crew. If you see it, clean it. Use “Wet Floor” signs *only* while the hazard exists, then remove them so people don’t ignore them.

2. Housekeeping (The Trip Hazard)

Clutter is the #1 cause of trips. Boxes in hallways, extension cords across walkways, and tools left on the floor are accidents waiting to happen.

The Fix: Designate clear walkways with floor tape. Nothing—absolutely nothing—goes inside the lines. Manage cords with covers or tape them down.

3. Lighting and Visibility

You can’t avoid what you can’t see. Dim lighting in stairwells or transition areas (like going from a bright dock to a dark warehouse) blinds workers to hazards.

The Fix: Replace burnt-out bulbs immediately. Install motion-sensor lights in seldom-used areas like storage closets.

Stairs and Ladders: The High-Risk Zones

Gravity always wins. Falls from elevation are far more deadly than falls on the same level.

• Stairs: Always use the handrail. It’s not a suggestion. Keep stairs clear of loose objects.
• Ladders: Maintain three points of contact (two hands/one foot or two feet/one hand) at all times. Never carry tools in your hands while climbing; use a tool belt.

Footwear: Your Personal Tires

Just like a car needs good tires, workers need good shoes. The condition of the sole matters. Worn-out treads provide zero traction on wet surfaces. Mandate slip-resistant footwear in high-risk zones like kitchens or machine shops.

Training That Sticks

You can’t just show a video once a year. To truly reduce injuries, you need consistent reinforcement. Our Slips, Trips, and Falls Training Course covers hazard recognition, proper lifting to maintain balance, and the housekeeping habits that save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slips, Trips, and Falls

What is the most common cause of slips, trips, and falls?

The most common cause is poor housekeeping (clutter and obstacles) combined with wet or slippery surfaces. Inattention (distracted walking) is also a major contributing factor.

What is the “3-Point Contact” rule?

The “3-Point Contact” rule states that when climbing a ladder or entering/exiting a vehicle, you must always have three points of contact with the equipment (e.g., two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) to maintain stability.

How can employers prevent slip and fall accidents?

Employers can prevent accidents by maintaining dry walking surfaces, keeping walkways clear of clutter, providing adequate lighting, and ensuring all employees complete regular slips, trips, and falls training.

References

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Walking-Working Surfaces
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – Falls in the Workplace
• National Safety Council (NSC) – Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention