Slips, Trips and Falls - Canada Training Course

Slips, trips, and falls can happen almost anywhere—at work, at home, or during normal day-to-day activities. Most of the time, there is no warning siren or major equipment failure; it is just one step, one slick surface, one obstruction, or one moment of inattention. Slips, trips, and falls rarely begin with something dramatic; rather, they occur when a routine hazard goes unnoticed. Whether it is spilled hydraulic fluid on a shop floor, an extension cord in a walkway, or missing a step on a stairway while glancing at your phone, the physics and the risks remain exactly the same. Slips, trips, and falls are a common cause of workplace injuries, and they can happen on the same level or involve a fall to a lower level.

A slip happens when there is too little friction or traction between your footwear and the walking surface, often caused by wet surfaces, ice, mud, loose mats, or smooth flooring. A trip happens when your foot strikes an object or uneven surface and your momentum throws you off balance, typically resulting from cords, clutter, or tools left out of place. A fall occurs when you lose your balance and cannot recover. While many workers associate falls with roofs, scaffolds, or elevated platforms, same-level falls are a frequently overlooked risk. A simple slip or trip across a normal walkway or warehouse floor can result in severe injuries such as fractures, concussions, sprains, torn ligaments, and back injuries.

Falls to a lower level add another dangerous factor: the distance you fall. These incidents can occur from ladders, stairs, platforms, loading areas, or unprotected edges. The height does not have to seem significant; a small ladder or a short flight of stairs can still result in serious injury. Preventing these incidents requires proactive hazard identification. Maintain walking and working surfaces so they are clean, clear, and in good condition. Store tools properly, route cords away from walkways, and ensure that fall hazards from unguarded edges are controlled with guardrails, covers, or barriers. Footwear is another crucial element—workers must wear shoes suited for the conditions with adequate traction, and replace them when soles become worn.

Accessing different elevations introduces additional risks that require constant vigilance. When using ladders, workers must follow the manufacturer's instructions, face the ladder while climbing, maintain three points of contact, and never use chairs, boxes, or makeshift substitutes. When using stairs, always utilize handrails, take deliberate steps, and avoid carrying loads that block your view. Furthermore, conditions can change rapidly throughout the workday. Weather factors like rain, snow, ice, and mud can drastically reduce traction outdoors and can be tracked inside onto floors. Poor lighting or glare can hide an obstruction, uneven surface, or change in elevation. Do not assume an area remains safe just because it was safe earlier. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid distractions, and if you identify a hazard, correct it safely or report it immediately.

This program is available with English and French closed captions.