Preventing
Slips, Trips,
and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls can happen anywhere in your recycling operation. They make up the majority of general industry accidents and account for 15% of all accidental deaths, making them the second-leading cause of fatalities behind motor vehicle accidents.
OSHA maintains general industry regulations on this topic at 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D--Walking-Working Surfaces. In addition to that guidance, here are some tips to help you avoid unsafe conditions that could cause slips, trips, or falls:
■ Follow good housekeeping by maintaining clean, clutter-free aisles and work areas.
■ Contain work processes to prevent the discharge, splatter, or spillage of liquids or other slippery substances on the floor. If a spill does occur, clean it up or report it right away.
■ Install slip-resistant flooring in potentially slippery areas.
■ Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation to prevent poor visibility in work areas.
■ Highlight step edges and elevation-transition areas.
■ Wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
■ Follow safe walking practices and routes. Take short steps on potentially slippery surfaces to keep your center of balance.
■ Pay attention to your surroundings and do not rush in the workplace.
■ When climbing a ladder, use three points of contact and keep your center of gravity within the sides of the ladder. When using stairs, hold the handrail and mind your steps.
■ Use proper guarding of any holes or open windows and use guardrails to prevent falls. Where guardrails are not feasible, use adequate fall protection.
Safety graphic by Seetwo from Vecteezy.
