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f <br /> SLIPS AND TRIPS � <br /> Slips,trips and falls rank second only to motor vehicle accidents as a source of injury in the United States. <br /> SLIPS <br /> A slip occurs when there is insufficient traction or fi•iction between a worker's feet and the walking surface. <br /> Three common causes of slips are constantly wet surfaces,occasional spills and various weather conditions. <br /> There is a relationship between traction and footgear (shoes and boots). Slip-resistant footgear which is <br /> appropriate for the job should be worn. Proper fit, the composition and condition of the sole, as well as the <br /> shape and style of footgear has art effect on traction as well as comfort. New leather soles and heels can be <br /> very slippery when dry,and especially so when wet. <br /> Footgear, with a heel, is critical for employees whose duties require them to climb bladders. The heel is <br /> designed to catch the rung which will prevent the entire leg from going through the opening which can flip the <br /> climber over backwards and to the ground. <br /> Footgear should be maintained in good condition and free from build-up of mud and grit,to increase traction. <br /> The risk of slipping on wet areas or on ice can be reduced by slowing down in order to increase reaction time <br /> if there is a loss of traction,shortening the stride to keep the center of balance over the feet,walking with the <br /> feet pointed slightly outward which creates a more stable base,and making wide turns at corners. <br /> Other methods to reduce slipping include using abrasive strips to increase traction, posting signs to warn of <br /> wet areas,using matting,and prompt cleaning up of any spills. <br /> TRIPS <br /> Trips occur when balance is lost due to a foot or leg contacting an object or obstruction. On occasion, too <br /> much friction between the foot and the walking surface can also cause a trip. <br /> Poor or inadequate housekeeping, such as blocked aisles,extension cords, tool boxes and materials stored in <br /> walkways,are a few of the conditions that often produce trips. Another source is an obstructed view as when <br /> a worker is carrying a bulky object such as sheetrock. <br /> oper material storage reduces the potential for trips. Extension cords should be <br /> Good housekeeping and pr <br /> taped down,covered or nm overhead if possible. Do not use stairs for storage, even temporarily. Be aware j <br /> of the threshold when you step out of personnel hoist/elevator which may not always level properly with the J <br /> landing. <br /> Rolling objects such as pipe, pipe cut-offs, and conduit can be contributor to slips and trips when left in <br /> walkways. <br /> Improper lighting can also contribute to trips. <br /> Ii <br /> 1 <br />