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Workplace Health & Safety

7 slipping hazards lurking in your office

01/2021
staircase

When we head to work each day, a slip-and fall-accident is probably the last thing on our minds — but, in fact, they are much more common than we realise. Slips, Trips & Falls remained the top cause of workplace injuries in 2020.*

Most employers should have a work injury compensation program in place, but there are also steps an individual can take to ensure these types of accidents don’t occur. According to risk engineers, here are the top seven places to look for slip-and-fall hazards. 

 

  1. Footwear

    The shoes that are worn at work can play an important role in preventing slip-and-fall accidents. Always choose footwear that is compatible with the flooring surfaces in your workplace.

  2. Staircases

    A number of factors contribute to staircase accidents, including:

    • Irregular steps
    • Poor lighting
    • Objects left on stairs
    • Improper or broken handrails
    • A step in an unexpected place
       

    Make sure to always take your time on the stairs and use caution if you spot any of the signs above. 

  3. Escalators

    Escalator steps are not the correct height for normal walking, which increases the risk for a slip, trip, or fall. Do not use escalators as stairs when they are not operating.

  4. Footpaths

    Footpaths may crack due to settling surfaces, weather damage or the action of tree roots. They can also collect puddles. Be especially cautious when walking outside in bad weather, and alert the authorities if you see these hazards so they can improve the slip resistance of these surfaces.

  1. Ramps

    Slip-and-fall accidents are common on ramps as they can get slippery when it rains, making the increased slope difficult to navigate. And don’t get caught off-guard by a ramp with a low rise — especially when it has no handrails.

  2. Carparks

    When navigating the carpark at work, watch out for:

    • Irregular surfaces
    • Speed bumps (see below)
    • Inadequate lighting
  3. Speed bumps and curbs

    Speed bumps and curbs can be a tripping hazard and should be navigated with caution. They should also be painted a bright colour and properly placed.

Most importantly, if you do see a potential slip-and-fall hazard in your work environment, report it immediately. The sooner it is corrected, the safer you and your colleagues will be.

 

*https://www.mom.gov.sg/-/media/mom/documents/safety-health/reports-stats/wsh-national-statistics/wsh-report-2020.pdf

No part of this article may be reproduced in any written, electronic, recording, or printed form without written permission of Chubb.

Disclaimer - The content of the above article is not intended to constitute professional advice. Although all content is believed to be accurate, Chubb Insurance Singapore Limited (Chubb) makes no warranty or guarantee about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the content of this article. Users relying on any content do so at their own risk.

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