Slip, trip, and fall prevention is a cornerstone of workplace safety. These seemingly minor incidents are the leading cause of workplace injuries, lost workdays, and workers’ compensation claims across nearly all industries.
Whether it’s a wet floor, an uneven walkway, or improper ladder use, the hazards are everywhere—and preventable.
By addressing risks from the ground up, employers can safeguard workers, boost productivity, and comply with OHSE regulations.
Why Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries Matter
According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), slips, trips, and falls are among the most common types of incidents in Canadian workplaces, accounting for 20% of all lost-time injuries. (DoFollow)
Consequences include:
- Sprains, strains, and fractures
- Concussions and head trauma
- Back and spinal injuries
- Legal liabilities and costly insurance premiums
- Reduced morale and increased absenteeism
Understanding the Causes of Slips, Trips, and Falls
To effectively implement slip, trip, and fall prevention, it’s important to recognize common causes:
Slips
- Wet or oily surfaces
- Spills not cleaned promptly
- Icy or snow-covered walkways
- Smooth flooring with inadequate traction
- Improper footwear
Trips
- Clutter or obstacles in walkways
- Uneven surfaces or flooring transitions
- Cables and cords across the floor
- Unmarked changes in elevation
- Poor lighting
Falls
- Misuse of ladders or step stools
- Unprotected edges or holes
- Lack of guardrails or handrails
- Unsafe use of scaffolding
- Distractions or rushing
Key Areas to Address: From Floors to Ladders
1. Floor Safety and Housekeeping
A clean and well-maintained floor is your first line of defense. Implement:
- Non-slip mats in wet-prone areas (kitchens, entrances)
- Prompt spill cleanup with wet floor signs
- Regular floor inspections for damage or uneven surfaces
- Routine housekeeping to remove clutter, debris, and obstructions
Use high-traction flooring materials in high-risk zones. For detailed floor safety standards, consult WorkSafeBC Guidelines.
2. Footwear Policies
Footwear must be appropriate for both the job and environment. Best practices include:
- Non-slip soles for wet or oily surfaces
- Steel-toe boots with ankle support in industrial settings
- Ice grips or cleats for winter conditions
- Footwear audits to verify compliance
Offer training on how to select and maintain protective footwear.
3. Stairs, Handrails, and Elevation Changes
Many falls happen due to poorly maintained stairs or sudden changes in elevation:
- Install handrails on all stairways
- Use contrasting colors on steps and elevation edges
- Ensure even lighting to prevent missteps
- Fix loose steps, tiles, or flooring immediately
Post signs where elevation changes are unavoidable.
4. Ladder Safety and Best Practices
Ladders are critical tools—but they’re also high-risk if used improperly. Enforce these safety rules:
- Inspect ladders before each use (check for cracks, loose rungs)
- Set up at the correct angle (1:4 ratio for extension ladders)
- Maintain 3 points of contact while climbing
- Never overreach or stand on top steps
- Use ladders only on stable, level surfaces
Train workers using materials from OHSA or CSA Z11 standards, and reinforce guidance through toolbox talks. Find more ladder safety guidance at OHSE.ca (internal link).
5. Outdoor Slip and Trip Hazards
Outdoor areas can be especially hazardous due to weather:
- Shovel and salt walkways in icy conditions
- Fix cracked pavement or potholes
- Install exterior lighting
- Use warning signage during wet or windy weather
Assign responsibility for outdoor maintenance before incidents occur.
Administrative Controls and Prevention Programs
To build a robust slip, trip, and fall prevention program:
- Perform hazard assessments across all areas
- Document and investigate incidents to identify root causes
- Schedule regular safety audits and floor inspections
- Provide training for all employees and supervisors
- Post visual reminders near high-risk areas (stairs, kitchens, entryways)
Use NIOSH fall prevention resources for additional tools. (DoFollow)
PPE and Signage Use
While not a primary solution, PPE and signs are vital backup layers:
- Anti-slip footwear and boot covers
- Hi-vis jackets for low-light areas
- Floor marking tape and caution signs
- Barricades for wet or under-maintenance floors
Ensure signage complies with WHMIS/GHS formatting if related to chemical spills.
Legal Compliance and Due Diligence
In Canada, slip, trip, and fall prevention is mandated under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and relevant provincial regulations. Employers must:
- Keep floors and surfaces safe
- Ensure safe access and egress
- Provide appropriate footwear and PPE
- Investigate incidents and take corrective action
Non-compliance can result in citations, fines, and workplace inspections.
Conclusion: Prevent Falls Before They Happen
Slip, trip, and fall prevention isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about creating a culture of vigilance, responsibility, and care. From office environments to construction sites, the hazards are universal—but so are the solutions.
Evaluate your floors, reinforce ladder safety, train your team, and build your prevention program today. Because when it comes to falls, prevention is far less costly than recovery.
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