The Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention Program has been developed to provide supervisors and workers with the tools necessary to recognize, assess and control workplace hazards that may result in a slip, trip or fall.

The goal of this program is the prevention of injuries resulting from slips, trips and falls.

All slip, trip and fall hazards should be reported immediately to your supervisor. In addition, slip, trip and fall hazards requiring corrective action by Physical Plant should be reported to the Maintenance Control Centre (MCC) at extension 3668, identifying this as a safety hazard.

Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention Program Information:

Slip, Trip and Fall FAQ

What are some common slip, trip and fall hazards?

The following list includes examples of common causes for slips, trips and falls in the workplace:

Housekeeping and Maintenance Practices

  • Accumulation of clutter and waste.
  • Improper storage of material and equipment.
  • Spills.
  • Extension cords, conduits, cables, and hoses across walking surfaces.
  • Loose and unsecured floor mats, carpets, and coverings.
  • Damaged or missing flooring materials.
  • Stairs and ramps with loose or missing handrails.
  • Inadequate lighting.

Walking and Working Surface Conditions

  • Slippery, wet or icy walking surfaces.
  • Uneven walking surfaces.
  • Surface changes such as carpet to tile or level to sloped.
  • Surface protrusions or depressions such as thresholds, cover plates, and gratings.

Work Practices

  • Wearing inappropriate footwear for the task.
  • Carrying items that obstruct view.
  • Rushing to complete work.

Personal Behavior

  • Wearing improperly fitted, loose, or undone footwear.
  • Cutting through areas not designated or intended as walkways.
  • Horseplay and running in the workplace.
  • Not paying attention.

What preventative measure should I take during winter?

  • Wear proper winter footwear with rubber soles.
  • Stay on designated walkways, which have been cleared and maintained.
  • Walk do not run.
  • Do not take shortcuts across courtyards or other boulevards.
  • Avoid using exterior stairways, use interior stairways where possible.
  • Use the tunnel system until weather conditions change and icy conditions are reduced.

What should I do if I notice a slip, trip or fall hazard?

  • All slip, trip and fall hazards should be reported immediately to your supervisor. If your immediate supervisor is not available report the hazard to the next level of supervison.
  • Slip, trip and fall hazards requiring action by Facilities Management and Planning should be reported to the Maintenance Control Centre (MCC) at extension 3668 for corrective action.
  • Do not wait for someone else to report the hazard.

Why should slip, trip and fall hazards be reported immediately?

  • Immediate reporting of the hazard allows for prompt corrective action.
  • Ensures a safe and healthy workplace
  • Eliminate injuries in the workplace.

What will my supervisor do?

  • Your supervisor is required to take corrective action immediately. This may require isolation of the hazard until arrangements can be made for its correction.