Level changes • Any kind of change in elevation – stairs, curbs, ramps – can cause a slip up. Make sure you’re focused on the area around and ahead of you. Cords, cables and hoses • Loose cords not only look unsightly, they’re also a frequent cause of falls in both homes and workplaces. Keep cords out of the way and taped down. Slippery surfaces • Slips are especially common in bathrooms, kitchens and near water fountains. Additionally, entrances and exits can be an issue if water and mud are tracked in from shoes. Clean up spills immediately and post a warning sign if the floor is wet. Shoes • Choosing appropriate footwear, such as shoes with proper ankle and heel support and non-skid strips on the bottom, can help reduce your risk of falling. Damaged ground • A seemingly small crack in the sidewalk or broken tile can easily disrupt your day with a trip or fall. Keep management in the loop if any of these issues arise. Bringing it home Though less frequent, falls from a height are often more severe than falls on the same level. Ladders in particular are a tool that we use both at work and at home, so it’s important to understand the safety concerns and how to use them correctly. Think of these tips during your next home project: • Choose the right ladder for the job and make sure you have received training on how to use it properly • Inspect the ladder before and after a job - don’t use a damaged or unsafe ladder • Don’t stand any higher than the third rung from the top of a ladder • Always keep at least three points of contact with the ladder (i.e., two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) • When you climb, always face the ladder and grip the rungs, not the side rails • Do not climb with tools in hand – use a tool belt • Do not use ladders outdoors in windy or inclement weather, and if the weather turns while you are on it, descend immediately • Place the base of the ladder on a firm, solid surface • Make sure the top of the ladder has firm support, too – never lean a ladder against a window pane or other unstable surface When it comes to slips, trips and falls, knowing what to look out for can make all the difference in your safety.