Safe Operating Procedures for Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention

Purpose

To define the safeoperating procedures in a manner that informs and instructs employees of[Employer/Organization Name] on the key health and safety hazards and controls to remember in order to maintain a clean and hazard-free workplace and prevent slip, trip and fall incidents.

Safe Operating Procedure

Indoors

  • Common causes of slip, trip and fall incidents indoors include:
  • Debris
  • Spills
  • Loose tiles
  • Greasy, wet or unclean floors
  • Obstructions that interfere with traffic flow
  • Cleaning floors
  • Running or engaging in horseplay
  • Employees must be proactive in identifying the following issues, and take the necessary steps to eliminate these problems in the workplace:
  • Obstructions
  • Floors in aisle ways, counter and shop floor area are free from obstructions that interfere with traffic flow.
  • Debris
  • All floors are clean and free from dirt, food wrappers or other trash.
  • Garbage bins are never overflowing.
  • FlooringIssues
  • Floors are free of major cracks, chipped, or missing floor tiles or boards.
  • Investigate floor treatments with supervisor.
  • Put out mats, if available.
  • Liquid on Floor
  • Floor is free of water or other liquids.
  • Clean up spills immediately with dry mop or squeegee.
  • Identify and remove source of liquid on floor.
  • Look for the following, and address immediately:
  • Spills
  • Seepage
  • Drips
  • Splashing
  • If floor is wet due to bad weather, set warning cones or signs in clear view.
  • Cleaning Floors
  • If floor is wet, set warning cones or signs in clear view.
  • Ensure correct methods and substances are used to clean floors.

Exterior

  • Inspect parking lot and exterior walkway:
  • Surface is free of cracks, holes and obstructions that could interfere with foot traffic.
  • Bumper blocks unbroken and secured to the ground.
  • Area free of obstacles such as tools or ladders.
  • Area free of debris.
  • Area free of spills or standing water.
  • Salt is applied to area if required.
  • Inspect exterior lighting:
  • Lighting is functional and illuminates all areas.
  • If lights are not working contact maintenance.
  • Inspect handicapped parking, ramps and access ways:
  • Indicate handicapped parking with signs or painted symbols.
  • Keep ramps clear and accessible.
  • Inspect walkways for low hanging tree branches.
  • Organize your work to reduce walking as much as possible.
  • Carry small loads close to your body and below chest level so you can see around the object being carried.
  • Close cabinet drawers and doors as soon as you are finished using them.
  • Slow down and take small careful steps on uneven or slippery surfaces.
  • Hold the hand rail when moving up and down stairs.
  • Inspect work areas for slip, trip and fall hazards regularly and report any deficiencies to the supervisor.
  • Take extra care when you see a wet floor sign.
  • Keep walkways and floors free of boxes, extension cords, air hoses and litter whenever possible.
  • Immediately move anything that is stored on or near stairways.
  • Ensure adequate lighting.
  • Report any uneven floor surfaces.
  • Where possible, use no-skid waxes and surfaces coated with grit to create non-slip surfaces in slippery areas or use non-slip mats.

Best Practices

  • Linoleum or other smooth or polished surfaces should be treated with a non-slip preparation.
  • Rugs should be maintained in good condition and torn or damaged floor coverings should be replaced or repaired immediately.
  • Entrance steps and stairs to buildings should be kept free from ice or snow at all times.
  • Cleaning supplies, broom, mops, etc should have a designated storage location so they can be easily found when clean-up is necessary.
  • All stairways should be equipped with anti-slip treads and suitable handrails.
  • Differences of floor elevations in aisles and corridors should be clearly marked.
  • Computer, power and telephone outlets, wires and extension cords should be located where they will not cause a tripping hazard.
  • Step ladders or stands with non-slip feet and treads should be available to employees when trying to reach high places.
  • Materials should not be placed on the floor where tripping may result.
  • All areas should be inspected according to a pre-determined frequency and conditions documented in a checklist.

Additional Resources

SOP for Housekeeping

Ministry of Labour Occupational Health and Safety Guidelines for Farming Operations in Ontario

Document Management

Effective Date:
Revision Date: