ClubCOLLECTIVE October 2022
Slips, trips and falls (STF) remain the second most common cause of injury in Australia. Whilst we all work hard to ensure the safety of our workers, within Club Employers Mutual (CEM) there has been a small increase in injuries and costs related to slips, trips and falls.
A few tips to consider when designing workplaces and preventing injuries is to utilise the Hierarchy of Control in all your decisions: Elimination: Designers can eliminate STF hazards at the design stage by understanding who the end users will be. For example: removing changes in floor levels, redesigning thoroughfares away from wet areas and installing more power outlets to avoid trailing cords. Substitution: Replace existing flooring with a more slip-resistant surface. Isolation: Prevent access to high-risk areas. For example: cordon off wet floor areas while cleaning is in progress.
Engineering controls (redesign): Apply floor treatments to increase slip resistance, improve lighting, and marking edges of steps and changes in floor levels. Administrative Controls: Implement housekeeping regimes, use signage to warn of wet or slippery areas, and by also providing training and supervision. For more Information SafeWork Australia’s – Slips, Trips and Falls has more tips and suggestions to improve the safety of your workplace.
Contact Information
Name: Sandra Soboljevski
Title: WHS Specialist
Email: s.soboljevski@eml.com.au
Phone: (02) 8251 9196
www.clubemployersmutual.com.au
