How to Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls 

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common workplace injuries and among the most preventable. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), these incidents account for a significant number of injuries across nearly every industry. When left unaddressed, they can lead to serious injuries, lost productivity, higher workers’ compensation costs, and increased liability for employers. 

For businesses of all sizes, preventing slips, trips, and falls is a critical part of risk management and employee protection. At Group Management Services (GMS), we help employers take a proactive approach to workplace safety that protects both their people and their bottom line. 

Why Slips, Trips, and Falls Matter 

Slips, trips, and falls can result in more than minor injuries. These incidents often cause sprains, fractures, head injuries, and in severe cases, fatalities. OSHA reports that thousands of workers are seriously injured each year due to slip, trip, and fall hazards in the workplace. 

Beyond the physical impact on employees, these injuries can result in costly workers’ compensation claims, increased insurance premiums, lost workdays, and potential OSHA citations. Addressing these hazards is not just a compliance requirement. It is a smart business decision. 

Common Causes of Slips, Trips, and Falls 

Understanding what causes slips, trips, and falls is the first step in preventing them. Some of the most common causes include: 

1. Wet or slippery surfaces caused by spills, cleaning activities, or weather conditions 
2. Uneven walking surfaces, such as loose mats, damaged flooring, or cracked pavement 
3. Poor lighting in stairwells, hallways, warehouses, or outdoor areas 
4. Obstacles in walkways, including cords, tools, boxes, or debris 
5. Inadequate housekeeping that allows hazards to go unnoticed 

These hazards are often part of day-to-day operations, which makes regular inspections and employee awareness essential. 

Best Practices to Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls 

OSHA and other safety authorities emphasize a proactive, layered approach to fall prevention that includes training, inspections, and clear procedures. 

Conduct Regular Workplace Inspections 

Routine job site inspections help identify hazards before an injury occurs. This includes reviewing walkways, staircases, work areas, entrances, and outdoor surfaces. 

Maintain Strong Housekeeping Standards 

Promptly cleaning up spills, removing clutter, and keeping walkways clear significantly reduces the risk of incidents. 

Provide Ongoing Employee Training 

Employees should be trained to recognize slip, trip, and fall hazards, follow safe walking practices, and report unsafe conditions. Training should be ongoing and regularly reinforced. 

Ensure Proper Lighting 

Adequate lighting allows employees to clearly see hazards and navigate work areas safely, especially in high-traffic or outdoor areas. 

Develop Clear Policies  

Written safety procedures for housekeeping, spill response, inspections, and hazard reporting help create consistency and accountability across the workplace. 

Use Appropriate Footwear and PPE 

In some environments, slip-resistant footwear and other protective equipment can help reduce the risk of falls. 

How GMS Helps Employers Reduce Slip, Trip, and Fall Risks 

At GMS, we support businesses with comprehensive risk management solutions designed to improve safety, reduce claims, and support OSHA compliance. Our services include: 

Safety Training Programs 

We provide employee and supervisor training focused on hazard recognition, fall prevention, and safe work practices tailored to your industry. 

Workplace Safety Documentation 

Our team helps create and maintain safety programs, standard operating procedures (SOPs), inspection checklists, and other required documentation aligned with regulatory standards. 

Job Site Inspections and Risk Assessments 

We conduct site inspections to identify hazards and recommend corrective actions before injuries occur. 

Training and Support 

GMS offers on-site and online safety training and coaching to reinforce best practices and strengthen your safety culture. 

OSHA Inspection Assistance 

If OSHA visits your workplace, we help you prepare, respond to citations, and implement corrective action plans to reduce risk and potential penalties. 

Protecting Your Employees and Your Business 

Slips, trips, and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries, but they do not have to be. With the right prevention strategies and a strong risk management plan, employers can significantly reduce incidents and create a safer work environment. 

Partnering with GMS gives you access to the expertise, tools, and training needed to protect your employees, stay compliant, and safeguard your bottom line. 

If you are ready to strengthen your workplace safety program, contact GMS today.