Washington – A new publication (.pdf file) from NIOSH addresses preventing slips, trips and falls in wholesale and retail trade establishments.

Slips, trip and falls – the third most common cause of lost-workday injuries in wholesale and retail trade – occur due to factors such as slippery surfaces; loose mats or rugs; poor lighting; employee fatigue; and inappropriate, loose or poor-fitting footwear, according to NIOSH.

The tips offered include:

• Ensure aisles are free of clutter and other tripping hazards.
• Provide cleanup supplies at convenient locations in the facility.
• Place water-absorbent mats near entrances and areas where water, ice or snow may be tracked onto the floor.
• Train employees on identifying and preventing slip, trip and fall hazards.

Employees can help by taking the following precautions:

• Push (rather than pull) carts to allow a better line of sight.
• Walk with caution and make wide turns at corners.
• Clean surfaces as soon as they become wet.
• Place warning signs in wet floor areas and remove them when floor is clean and dry.