Reducing Slips, Trips, and Fall Hazards
Safety starts with a clear path, eliminate clutter before it causes harm.
In healthcare and other workplace environments, safety is paramount—not only for employees but also for patients and visitors. Two common but often overlooked contributors to accidents are cluttered work areas and improperly used floor mats. Addressing these hazards can significantly reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls (STFs).
Tripping Hazards: The Impact of Clutter
Clutter in work areas, storage spaces, hallways, and walkways can create serious tripping hazards. Loose cables, cords stretched across pathways, and items scattered around workstations can easily entangle feet, potentially causing injuries to employees or patients. Even seemingly harmless boxes or miscellaneous objects left in passageways can increase the risk of accidents.
Prevention Strategies:
Keep walkways and work areas clear to allow safe movement
Use wall-mounted storage hooks, shelves, and hose spools
Ensure exit pathways are unobstructed for quick and safe egress
Organize cords using cord organizers, beveled protective covers, or retractable holders
Mount cords near or underneath desks when possible
Regularly organize storage areas to eliminate clutter
Pro Tip: Regular safety walkthroughs can catch clutter hazards early. Our platinum and gold OSHA clients enjoy quarterly inspections to identify risks before they become accidents.
Improper Use of Floor Mats and Runners
Floor mats and runners are designed to prevent STFs by providing slip-resistant surfaces, absorbing liquids, and removing dirt and moisture from shoes. However, mats that are old, worn, or poorly placed can actually increase the risk of accidents rather than prevent them.
Prevention Strategies:
Ensure entrance mats are large enough for multiple footsteps to clean shoes before contacting the floor
Add extra mats during icy, snowy, or rainy conditions, and in any areas where water may accumulate
Use non-slip mats in areas with frequent wet floors
Choose beveled-edge, flat, continuous, or interlocking mats to reduce tripping hazards
Replace mats that are curled, ripped, or worn, and secure edges with carpet tape as needed
Keep mats in place to prevent movement
Consider floor markers to remind staff to position mats correctly each day
Remember: Safety is an ongoing effort. Regular inspections, organization, and staff awareness are key to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.