As the school year is coming to a close think safety first. Slips, trips and falls are second only to motor-vehicle accidents as a cause of death in the United States. Falls account for 15-20 percent of all workers’ compensation costs. The good news is falls are easy to prevent. Take the time to watch for and correct hazardous conditions, and you can lower your chance of injury. Use these suggestions to make your workplace safe:
- If you need to reach for something, get help. Don’t use your desk, table, box, wastebasket, chair, bookcase or a ledge! Use the correct ladder or stepstool for the given task.
- Take your time. Many falls happen when people are walking fast or running.
- Never stand on the top rung/step of a ladder. Secure and stabilize all ladders before climbing them.
- Keep walkways free of clutter.
- Clean up spills as soon as they happen.
- Don’t carry more than you can handle. Loads that are too heavy or too big don’t allow you to see properly.
- Make sure computer and telephone cords are not underfoot.
Always think safety first!