In any workplace, slips, trips, and falls are common hazards. However, they can be especially dangerous in a warehouse setting.
Warehouses often have uneven surfaces, large items, liquids, and other substances that can cause you to trip or slip.
Warehouse dangers
Slips, trips, and falls can cause a wide range of serious injuries. In 2019, they were the cause of 27% of 882,000 non-fatal accidents requiring time away from work. And slips and trips that cause falls from tall heights are one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities.
Several factors can cause these accidents, including poor lighting, uneven floors, obstructed pathways, improperly stacked materials, or even a wet or slippery surface.
To reduce risks and prevent costly injuries in the workplace, warehouse managers should take the following steps:
- Install safety rails
- Ensure materials are properly stored
- Maintain clear pathways
- Provide training for employees about common hazards and best practices for working safely in a warehouse environment.
If a slip and fall accident in a warehouse causes your injury, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is always best to err on the side of caution and get checked out by a doctor.
Once you have been seen by a medical professional, you will want to gather evidence to support your claim. Take pictures of where you fell and any apparent hazards can support your case. Get the contact information of any witnesses. The more evidence you have to support your claim, the easier it will be to prove that you’re entitled to workers’ compensation.
