Prevent Industrial Accidents With Safety Upgrades
Over 12,000 slip, trip and fall hazards occur in industry each year. They are the second leading cause of deaths – second only to motor vehicle accidents – and are some of the most common injuries, sending 9 million people to the hospital every year. According to OSHA, falls alone contribute to nearly 20 percent of all disabling occupational injuries.
While most of these injuries and deaths could have been prevented, unless dedicated solutions are instituted in each workplace, accidents will continue – causing pain, disability, loss of life and loss of income to workers, as well as costing employers in lost productivity, lawsuits and fines.
In fact, according to the National Safety Council, disabling workplace injuries caused by falls in 2011 cost a total of over $13.2 billion. Slips, trips and falls were also the leading cause of workers’ compensation claims, costing a total of nearly $62 billion and averaging $20,000 per accident. A 2015 Zurich Insurance study found that claims for slips, trips and falls are typically 50 percent higher than other types of accidents.
Slips are caused by a variety of hazards on floor surfaces such as water, oil, grease, dust, mud, plastic wrap, and debris. Outdoor issues include gravel, metal surfaces, and ramps without skid resistant surfaces. Trips are most often the result of uneven surfaces, hazards in walkways such as cables, cords, or hoses, clutter, unsecured treads or mats, elevation changes, worn or damaged tiles, and ramps or curbs. Falls are especially dangerous and often happen when using stairs, ladders or platforms and when entering or leaving heavy equipment.
Disabling workplace injuries caused by falls in 2011 cost a total of over $13.2 billion.
Most of these hazards can be prevented through a professional safety assessment, improved workplace design and updated processes. Additionally, education, training and good housekeeping protect workers.
Solutions may include improved ventilation, enclosures, better work surfaces, collection systems, railings and safety platforms, slip resistant floors, improved lighting, drains and drain covers, signage and markings, warning and guard systems, and other safety features. These can be combined with process improvements such as better aisle clearance, eliminating obstructions, clutter reduction, and maintenance for optimum protection.
Storee has years of experience providing industrial safety solutions and will complete a full safety assessment and implement recommended improvements to protect your facility, investment, reputation, and employees.
Contact us at 888-736-2032 to discuss your safety needs.
