Worksafe Fairfax: Reducing Injuries: Slips, Trips and Falls

1. Slips, Trips and Falls
A Risk Management Initiative to Keep Fairfax County Employees
and Residents Safe and Injury Free.

2. » 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.

3. » 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.

4. » 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.

5. » 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.

6. » 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.

7. » 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.

8. » 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.

9. » 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.

10. 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.