The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says slips, trips and falls are the second most common cause of lost-workday injuries in hospitals.
The top 10 slips, trips, and falls hazards are contaminants on the floor, poor drainage of pipes and drains, indoor walking surface irregularities, outdoor walking surface irregularities, ice or snow, inadequate lighting, stairs and handrails, step-stools and ladders, clutter, loose cords, hoses, wires and medical tubing, and improper use of floor mats and runners.
Research shows that among injured heathcare workers who filed workers compensation injury claims, knees, ankles and feet were the body parts most commonly injured from slips, trips and falls; most often these actions resulted in sprains, strains, dislocations and tears. These workers also are more likely to suffer fractures and multiple injuries than when they suffered other types of injuries.
Here are some helpful steps for injury prevention:
- Follow the housekeeping program.
- Watch for changes in walkway elevation, including where handrails and stairways occur. Watch out for yellow safety lines that warn you of these changes.
- Use proper cleaning procedures for floors such as a two step mopping process rather than damp mopping.
- Stay away from wet areas or go around.
- Wear proper footwear for your are of work such as slip resistant shoes.
- Keep the walkways clear of debris if you see any.
- Make sure mats are placed properly in areas where the floor is routinely wet.
- Report loose or warped carpeting or buckled or broken tile so it can be replaced.
- Make sure to use ladders and stepladders properly.
- Eliminate clutter from your work area.
For more tips on how to maintain a safe work environment visit www.copperpoint.com
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