In the United States, over one million people suffer injuries from slip, trip, and fall accidents annually, resulting in more than one million emergency room visits. These accidents account for roughly 15% to 20% of all job-related injuries and cause over 17,000 to 19,500 fatalities annually.
Emergency Room Visits: Over 1 million people visit the ER annually due to these injuries. Some estimates suggest that over 8 million people were hospitalized due to falls in 2023.
Impact on Older Adults: More than 1 in 4 older adults fall each year, with 3 million being treated in emergency departments.
Workplace Impact: Slips, trips, and falls constitute 15% of all job-related injuries.
Common Injuries: Injuries often include hip fractures, head injuries, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Many minor trips are not reported, meaning the actual number of people who fall, even if not seriously hurt, is much higher
A clean, organized workspace is critical to preventing slips, trips, and falls, which account for nearly 250,000 missed workdays annually. Actively scan your environment for clutter, spills, and blocked exits to prevent accidents before they happen.
Daily Safety at Work:
Clear Walkways: Immediately remove, report, or secure items causing tripping hazards (cords, boxes, tools).
Spill Response: Clean up grease, oil, or water spills immediately.
Eyes on Path: Stay focused on your surroundings while walking, avoiding distractions like mobile devices.
Report Hazards: Notify supervisors of any broken, loose, or unstable surfaces immediately.
A 1-minute, daily, focused scan of your work area can prevent injuries.
Daily Safety at Home:
Floors & Walkways: Remove clutter, toys, and shoes from walkways.
Secure or remove area rugs and mats, as their edges often cause trips.
Lighting: Ensure all areas are well-lit, especially stairways and hallways. Use nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways to aid navigation at night.
Stairs: Keep stairs completely clear of items. Ensure handrails are on both sides and are securely installed.
Electrical Cords: Use cord organizers or clips to keep wires tucked away along walls rather than stretching across walkways.
Bathroom: Place non-slip mats inside and outside the shower or bathtub. Install grab bars near toilets and in showers.
Furniture: Arrange furniture to allow for wide, open walking paths.
Exterior: Keep walkways, porches, and steps free of ice, snow, and debris.
Pets: Be aware of pets underfoot; consider a collar bell to hear them coming.
Personal Safety Tips:
Footwear: Wear shoes with good traction and support inside the house; avoid walking in socks or loose slippers.
Organization: Establish a habit of picking up items and putting them away before going to bed.
Avoid Shortcuts: Never use a chair as a step stool; use a sturdy, proper step stool or small utility ladder with a handrail instead.
Regularly check your home for new hazards and address them immediately.
