Slips, Trips & Falls Part 2
Safety Management System 2007		SMS ST062 2007

Slips, trips and falls are one of the most frequent causes of accidents, both on and off the job. Each year, in the United States, more than 300,000 people suffer disabling injuries from falls. Slips, trips and falls can be fatal as well; they rank second only to automobile accidents, causing nearly 12,000 deaths a year. To avoid getting hurt from falls, avoid rushing and remember the following:

Be aware of where you are walking. Look down for flooring defects, spilled liquids and changing surface levels. Always make sure the path is clear of obstructions. Make sure the area is well lit or use a flashlight if lighting is poor.

Make sure your shoes are in good shape and correct for the job. Discard worn-out shoes with smooth soles or other defects. If conditions are wet and slippery, wear non-slip shoes or boots. Steel-toed shoes are required on all SONOCO job locations.

Avoid unguarded floor openings. All unguarded floor openings should be reported to your supervisor immediately. When covers are placed over floor openings, avoid walking on the cover unless it is absolutely secure and will not move or collapse.

Do not run when going up or down stairs. Check to see that stair treads are in good shape, with no obstructions on the steps. Always use the hand railings that are provided. Avoid carrying large loads when going up or down stairs and ensure that stairwell is well lighted.

From the time you lose a secure grip, footing or balance, until impact, several factors influence what part of the body will be injured and how severe the damage will be.

• Distance of the fall – momentum and velocity affect the impact on your body.
• The angle of the body at impact – we’re not like cats landing on all fours.
• The obstacles the body strikes – if you fall on railings, steps, or materials?
• The surface eventually landed on – will it be a pile of sand, or broken concrete and re-bar?