According to the National Safety Council, slip and fall accidents cost employers an average of $47,681 in workers’ compensation claims. Falls and falling objects can result from unstable working surfaces, ladders that are not safely positioned, and misuse of fall protection. Workers are also subject to falls or to the dangers of falling objects if sides and edges, floor holes, and wall openings are not protected.
Any time a worker is at a height of six feet or more (construction industry) or four feet or more (general industry), the worker must be protected.
Office Chairs
Believe it or not, plenty of employees fall from office chairs every year. Office chairs should not be used as step ladders. Standing on any chairs – particularly rolling office chairs with wheels – is a significant fall hazard that can end in a very serious injury.
Falling Objects
Falling or flying objects on a worksite can expose workers to relatively minor injuries, such as cuts and abrasions, as well as more serious injuries, such as concussions or blindness. Working beneath scaffolds or other areas where overhead work is being performed puts workers at risk from falling objects. Flying objects become a concern when workers are using power tools or performing tasks that involve pushing, pulling or prying.
Ladders
You risk falling if portable ladders are not safely positioned each time they are used. Falls from ladders can cause injuries ranging from sprains to death.
Unprotected Sides, Wall Openings, and Floor Holes
Almost all sites have unprotected sides and edges, wall openings, or floor holes at some point during construction. If these sides and openings are not protected at your site, injuries from falls or falling objects may result, ranging from sprains and concussions to death.
Share this and talk with your staff about the importance of workplace safety.
*This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. For further information, please consult a risk management professional.