• Learning to fall “properly” – using techniques that can minimize fall injuries. Zurich offi cials say “it is important to take the time to evaluate every area of your facility and fi nd where these risks could arise, specifi cally in hightraffi c areas.” Th e company has developed its Slip, trip and fall evaluation form to help evaluate and analyze what it has identifi ed as the 10 main contributing factors for these types of accidents. Th ose factors are: • Surface composition. • Foreign substance potential. • Surface conditions. • Surface changes. • Level changes. • Obstructions. • Visibility. • Human factors. • Stairs (includes any elevators and escalators). • Unusual features. Th e Slip, trip and fall evaluation form and the Contributing Factor Guide are included within this article. Zurich offi cials say the evaluation can be used to establish an action plan to reduce slips, trips and falls. “Not only will you need to make changes to areas with potential for risks, but you will also need to put administrative policies in place to make sure everyone knows the proper procedures,” they advise. CONTROL Th e fi nal step in the assessment program is to determine how to control any slip, trip and fall risks that have been identifi ed, say the Zurich offi cials. A method for this is to create a slip, trip and fall action plan worksheet to use for each issue that has been identifi ed a high risk through the Slip, trip and fall evaluation form. | Cover Story Additional steps for a safer workplace Offi cials from the Zurich Insurance Group advise keeping the following questions in mind when assessing risk factors for slips, trips and falls. GENERAL • Are handrails and guardrails secured and constructed to safety standards? • Are slip retardant fl oors present? • What type of footwear is typically worn around the facility? • Do entrance mats adequately cover the entryway into the facility? Are they in good condition? • Are ladders and step stools regularly inspected? SIDEWALKS AND PARKING LOTS • Are sidewalks free of holes, breaks and cracks? • Are exterior surfaces illuminated with good lighting? • Are unsafe conditions reported immediately? EMPLOYEES • Are employees reminded to pay attention to where they are walking? • Do employees report unsafe conditions when observed? • Are employees instructed on the proper use of fl oor cleaners and safe mopping techniques? • Do employees pick up paper, debris, etc. and wipe up spills from fl oors? • Are employees instructed on how to carefully ascend and descend from ladders? GOOD HOUSEKEEPING • Are hallways and stairs clutter free and cleaned regularly? • Are wet fl oor signs regularly posted properly? • Are mop heads frequently changed and cleaned on a regular basis? RESTROOMS • Is adequate lighting available? • Is suffi cient drainage available? • Are leaky toilets and water fi xtures promptly repaired? • Are restrooms regularly inspected? Employees have a role in helping reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls in the workplace. Photo courtesy of DK Communications VehicleServicePros.com/10123676 16 FLEET MAINTENANCE ❚ OCTOBER 2016 ❚ VehicleServicePros.com
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