Slips, Trips and Falls in Retail

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How Accidents Happen

More than two thirds of falls are actually slips and trips from poor floor maintenance. This is why we need to pay special attention to cleanliness in our store.

Slips happen from losing balance, but also when someone slips or trips over an object. They are the most common injury in retail stores, and we want to get ahead of the problem.

Our co-workers are also likely to fall from portable ladders and step stools if they are not used correctly. Sadly, this type of fall usually has more serious injuries and in the worst situations can end in a fatality.

Let's avoid clutter at all times. It not only looks bad, it's unsafe!

An obstructed view or poor lighting can also cause someone to trip, slip or fall. Make sure the store is well lit and risks are mitigated (we don't want anyone ending up like the person pictured above.)

Keep an eye out for these causes as well! Exposed cables Open drawers Steps or uneven parts of our floor

Housekeeping and Preventing Falls

Any unexpected contact can cause a slip or fall. Let's go over what we can do to avoid these accidents. This shows the importance of good housekeeping. Let's keep our floors clean, our shoes with friction and a walking pace that's careful. We don't want to run into our clients when getting someone else an item.

When flattening a floor mat or rug, feel free to move a rack to smooth it out.

Even in the back of the store make sure the filing cabinet is always closed, or any drawer behind the register.

Keep an eye out for exposed cables. Sometimes customers use our wall jacks to charge their phones. If you see this, offer to charge their phone behind the register and tell them we like to keep the area clear.

Avoiding Slips, Trips & Falls (and what to do about them)

If the floor is wet (from all your mopping) Don't walk too fast. Pay attention to where you're walking! Keep your feet pointed outwards if you're iffy about walking over an oily or wet spot. Make wide strides when turning the corner to not run anyone. Overall, slow down! Our store isn't a racetrack. Moving too fast does not add to our calm atmosphere.

If you are using a ladder (or stepladder) make sure it is dry and opened fully. Make sure the extensions on the side are locked in place and it is only used on flat surfaces. If you are moving something heavy, have a partner there to help you handle the object.

If a customer or co-worker falls and is injured and medical assistance is needed, do not hesitate to call. If you are unsure, ask the injured person or management.

If you are waiting for medical service, make sure the person is comfortable. When you do this, however, do not touch them.

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