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Slips! Trips! Falls!

By Dan Scungio, MT(ASCP), SLS

It’s that time of year! The weather is colder, and snow or ice can be in the forecast, even in some southern states. Having grown up just north of Buffalo, I have been used to snowy or icy conditions at this time every year. One thing we always had to keep in mind when walking to school, when cleaning off our cars, or when shoveling the sidewalk was to watch our footing and make sure we wore the right type of shoes or boots. Even while taking those precautions, the possibility of a slip or fall still exists.

Slip and trip hazards are not just due to wintry conditions, however. For laboratorians, the danger can come in many other forms. Boxes could be stored inappropriately, or a little bit of water may be spilled in the hallway.  There may be an electrical cord hanging, or tubing may be sticking out from the back of an instrument in a lab walkway.

Falls are dangerous and should be avoided if at all possible. OSHA reports that falls are the cause of fifteen percent of all fatalities, and they are the nation’s leading cause of accidental death second only to automobile accidents. Those are high numbers, but I do not believe that most laboratory staff is aware of that or takes falls seriously. I have seen folks walk around or through minor spills, walk around obstacles without moving them, and even create trip hazards while putting away supplies.

Slips, trips and falls are more likely to cause fractures than any other work injury. A few years ago, a tech was working with me in a microbiology laboratory. While she sat to enter data, her foot became tangled around a keyboard wire. When she got up and began to walk, she tripped and landed on her shoulder. She could not get up. Once help arrived and she was brought to the emergency room, it was determined she broke her shoulder and would need immediate surgery. She was out of work for several weeks and has shoulder pain to this day.

Slips, trips and falls at work are the second most common cause of lost-workday injuries according to NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health). Their report points out that those who work in a healthcare setting are 90% more likely than those in all other industries combined to have a slip, trip or fall at work!

What are the common causes of these falls in laboratories? Wet floors, uneven or damaged floors, damaged or unsecured floor mats, poor lighting, uneven stairs or handrails, and improperly used step stools or ladders all can contribute to dangerous conditions in the laboratory. These items should be checked regularly using environmental and safety rounds or safety audits. Use your “safety eyes” and look for these things as you walk through your department. If you find an unsafe condition, take care of it immediately. Ignoring a wet spot on the floor may cause unnecessary harm for the person who walks behind you.

But what about that nasty weather that caused slippery conditions outside? How do we get to work safely when the ice and snow accumulate? Depending on the weather, it can be extremely difficult for the facility engineering and security staff to keep up with all slippery spots on your way into the building. The best thing you can do for yourself is to rely on actions you can take. Wear non-slip footwear such as boots with rubber or traction soles. Look down often when walking in snowy or icy conditions, and avoid visible patches of ice where possible. Walk slowly and steadily. Millions of people live in those kinds of conditions every winter without falling everywhere, it can be done safely.

You know that healthcare workers are at great risk for slip, trips, and falls, and safety awareness is always a great tool for injury prevention. Use the knowledge you now have to pay attention to detail whether you are on your way into work, walking through your work area, or traveling home to enjoy the rest of your day in good health!