Slip and Fall Incident Reporting (No Injury)
Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]
1. Scope
This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary steps and precautions to be taken when responding to and reporting a slip and fall incident that did not result in injuries. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors at the worksite. The goal is to ensure consistent and thorough reporting and investigation of such incidents to prevent future occurrences and potential injuries.
2. Definitions
Slip and Fall An unplanned event resulting in a person losing balance and landing on a surface. Near Miss An occurrence that could have resulted in injury or damage but did not. Incident Investigation A systematic process of gathering information about an incident to determine its causes and prevent recurrence.
3. Responsibilities
3.1 Supervisors
- Ensure all workers are trained on safe work procedures.
- Conduct regular safety inspections of the work area.
- Investigate all reported incidents thoroughly.
- Enforce safety policies and procedures.
3.2 Workers
- Report all incidents, including near misses and slips and falls, to the supervisor immediately.
- Adhere to all safety procedures and guidelines.
- Participate in safety briefings and training sessions.
- Use provided PPE properly.
4. Potential Hazards and Risks
Hazard | Risk | Control Measures |
---|---|---|
Slippery surfaces due to spills, weather conditions, or improper cleaning. | Risk of slips and falls leading to potential injuries. | Implement regular housekeeping practices to keep walkways clear and dry. Use non-slip flooring or apply non-slip coatings in high-risk areas. Provide adequate lighting in all work areas. |
Obstructions in walkways, such as equipment, cords, or debris. | Risk of trips and falls. | Ensure walkways and work areas are free from obstructions. Use barriers or signage to mark hazards. Implement a system for reporting and addressing hazards promptly. |
Inadequate lighting. | Reduced visibility, increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. | Provide adequate lighting in all work areas. Install additional lighting in poorly lit areas. Regularly inspect and maintain lighting systems. |
Improper footwear. | Reduced grip and stability, increasing the risk of slips and falls. | Ensure all employees wear appropriate footwear with good traction. Provide training on proper walking techniques and hazard awareness. |
Lack of regular inspections. | Unidentified hazards leading to increased risk of incidents. | Implement regular inspections of walkways and work areas. Address any identified hazards immediately. Maintain records of inspections and corrective actions. |
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Appropriate footwear with good traction is essential to prevent slips and falls.
- Slip-Resistant Shoes: Wear slip-resistant footwear suitable for the work environment. Ensure shoes are in good condition and provide adequate traction.
6. Equipment and Tools
No specific equipment or tools are required for the reporting of a slip and fall incident.
- Slip-Resistant Footwear: Appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles.
- Incident Report Form: Incident report form provided by the employer.
- Camera: Camera or smartphone for documenting the scene.
7. Pre-Job Requirements
7.1 Training and Competency
Training and Competency: All employees must receive training on slip and fall prevention, hazard identification, and incident reporting. Training records must be maintained.
7.2 Pre-Job Briefing
Pre-Job Briefing: Before starting work, conduct a briefing to discuss potential slip and fall hazards and review safety procedures. Ensure all workers are aware of the reporting process for incidents.
7.3 Work Area Preparation
Work Area Preparation: Inspect the work area for potential slip, trip, and fall hazards. Clear any obstructions, clean up spills, and ensure adequate lighting.
8. Safe Work Procedure Steps
- Assess Yourself: Immediately after the slip and fall, check yourself for any injuries, even if they seem minor. If you notice any pain, discomfort, or restricted movement, seek medical attention.
- Report the Incident: Report the incident to your supervisor as soon as possible, regardless of whether an injury occurred. Provide a detailed account of what happened, including the location, time, and any contributing factors.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the area where the slip and fall occurred, noting any hazards such as wet floors, obstructions, or poor lighting. This documentation can be valuable for the investigation.
- Complete an Incident Report: Complete an incident report form as provided by your employer. Be thorough and accurate in your description of the event. Include any witnesses and their contact information.
- Cooperate with the Investigation: Cooperate with the safety department or designated personnel during the incident investigation. Provide any additional information or clarification as needed.
- Follow Up: Follow up with your supervisor or the safety department to learn about the findings of the investigation and any corrective actions implemented to prevent future incidents.
9. Precautions and Safety Measures
- Maintain good housekeeping practices to prevent slips, trips, and falls. - Regularly clean and dry floors, clear walkways of obstructions, and properly dispose of waste materials.
- Use caution when walking on potentially slippery surfaces. - Walk slowly and deliberately, use handrails where available, and avoid sudden changes in direction.
- Report any hazards immediately. - Use the established reporting system to notify supervisors of any slip, trip, or fall hazards.
- Wear appropriate footwear with good traction. - Ensure shoes are in good condition and provide adequate grip for the working environment.
10. Emergency Procedures
10.1 General Emergency Response
In the event of a slip and fall, even without apparent injury, ensure the area is safe and provide assistance if needed. Report the incident immediately to the supervisor.
10.3 Emergency Contact Information
In case of any emergency, contact the supervisor or safety department immediately. Emergency contact numbers are posted at the work site.
11. Incident Reporting and Investigation
Report the incident to the supervisor immediately. The supervisor will complete an incident report form, detailing the time, location, and circumstances of the slip and fall. The report will be submitted to the safety department for review.
The safety department will review the incident report and conduct an investigation to determine the root cause of the slip and fall. This may include interviewing witnesses, inspecting the area, and reviewing safety procedures. The findings will be documented and used to implement corrective actions.
Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]
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Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.