Slips and falls accidents are a common cause of injuries not only in the workplace but also at home. They can occur due to slippery surfaces, spilled liquids, clutter in the workplace, or lack of proper signage. These accidents can result in injuries to the head, limbs, back, and other parts of the body.
Preventing Slips and Falls
Prevention is vital to avoid such accidents. It is essential to take preventive measures such as keeping floors clean and dry, installing non-slip mats, providing adequate lighting, repairing damaged stairs or floor parts, properly marking hazardous areas if they exist, wearing appropriate footwear, and keeping the work area clear and clean.
Safety Protocols and Procedures
Many places have safety protocols or procedures in place to safeguard the well-being of workers. These are processes that must be followed to prevent accidents such as slips and falls. They often include safety inspections, employee training on safe practices, and the use of personal protective equipment.
Injuries
Slips and falls can result in various types of injuries, from minor to severe, depending on factors such as the height and speed of the fall, the type of surface, and the way the body impacts. Some of the main injuries include:
- Bone fractures: Falls can result in fractures in bones such as arms, wrists, legs, hips, or the spine.
- Sprains and strains: Ligaments and tendons can be stretched or torn due to sudden tension caused by the fall, resulting in sprains or strains in areas such as ankles, knees, or wrists.
- Bruises: Also known as bruises, they can occur when soft tissues are damaged by the impact of the fall, causing internal bleeding and discoloration of the skin.
- Head injuries: Falls can cause head injuries ranging from mild concussions to severe head traumas, including brain concussions and intracranial hemorrhages.
- Spinal cord injuries: In severe falls or from significant heights, there is a risk of spinal cord injuries that can cause partial or total paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury.
- Skin injuries: Scrapes, cuts, and abrasions are common due to direct contact with hard surfaces during the fall.
- Internal injuries: In severe cases, falls can cause internal injuries to organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs due to the impact of the body on the ground or objects during the fall.
Responsibility for slips and falls lies with both the employer and the employee. The employer must ensure a safe working environment and provide constant training to prevent accidents, while the employee must commit to following the safety protocols stipulated by the company to safeguard security and prevent accidents.
Slips and fall accidents are preventable by following appropriate measures, raising awareness, and educating about latent risks and existing safety measures. Measures such as keeping areas clean and free of obstacles, wearing appropriate footwear, installing handrails and warning signs in slippery areas, and practicing good falling technique can help reduce the risk of slips and fall injuries.
If you have experienced slips and falls from a height at your workplace, we understand your challenges. At Taylor and Associates, as professionals in workers’ compensation, we are committed to helping individuals obtain the maximum compensation possible for their accidents, providing the necessary support at every stage of the process.
If you have been involved in a workplace accident and need assistance in obtaining the compensation you deserve, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you recover and move forward with your life. Your well-being is our priority.
