INTRODUCTION
All slips, trips and falls have the potential to become Lost Time
Injuries. In fact, a third of all major
injuries are caused by this category of incident and in 1990/1, they accounted
for nearly 600 major injuries in industry.
In addition to the obvious incidents that can occur on sites, incidents
can also occur in other areas such as the entry / exit of road vehicles, in the
compound and in service areas such as a canteen.
HAZARDS
·
Unsafe ladders, steps and
scaffolds.
·
Slippery surfaces and improper
footwear for the working environment.
·
Obstructions in and on floors
and walkways.
·
Poor lighting.
·
Access to / from vehicles.
LEARNING POINTS
·
Inspect ladders and steps prior
to working and ensure that the ladder is set on firm, level ground at the
correct incline (1 in 4). Use two hands
whilst climbing, do not over reach when working from a ladder. When a harness or fall arrestors are being
worn, remember to check the condition of the equipment before use and check
that people know how to use them.
·
Inspect scaffolds prior to
working and ensure that the scaffold is complete, the working platforms are
clear from tripping hazards and, in the case of mobile scaffolds, the castors
are locked to prevent movement.
·
Avoid slips by keeping watch
for hazardous working conditions - wet floors, icy areas, oil and grease for
example. Promptly clean up the spillage,
do not leave it for someone else.
·
Avoid trips by maintaining a
good standard of housekeeping and ensure that materials are stored and
access-ways are kept clear.
·
Avoid falls by using fully
guarded work platforms. Where this is
impracticable, fall arrestors and harnesses must be clipped onto a solid
structure at all times whilst working at height. In addition, cherry pickers should be used
instead of "beam walking".