Slips and Falls – Leading Causes Share In terms of injuries and liability, many organizations do not realize how devastating accidents involving slips and falls can be. They are second only to vehicle accidents as the primary cause of accidental deaths. Slips and falls also are the most common cause of liability claims submitted to insurance companies. To assist your organization in reducing the risks of slips and falls, GuideOne's risk control experts offer the following tips and recommendations. Leading Causes of Slips and Falls Uneven surfaces Unexpected obstacles on walking surfaces Poor lighting Ice or water on walking surfaces Loose or missing handrails Loose carpeting High Risk Areas High risk areas include the following Doorways, door threshold and doorstops Playgrounds Sidewalks Stairwells Electrical extension cords and tools Kitchen areas Parking lots Preventive Measures to Minimize Accidents Use no-slip paint on curbs and parking guards to alert pedestrians of changes in elevation. Install no-slip treads on wooden stairs and interior ramps or inclines. Direct run-off water from roofs to downspouts and away from walking areas. Use “Wet Floor” signs when cleaning and mopping. Avoid painting walkways. Place protective guard rails around floor openings, lofts and other open areas. Encourage visitors to slow down and take small steps when slick surfaces are present. Maintain proper snow and ice removal. Also, keep records of snow and ice removal and salt and sand application. These records may be necessary to help defend against liability lawsuits. Tags Nonprofit & Human Service Religious Organization Small Business Category Education Nonprofit © 2024 GuideOne Insurance. GuideOne® is the registered trademark of the GuideOne Insurance Company. All rights reserved. This material is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to give specific legal or risk management advice, nor are any suggested checklists or action plans intended to include or address all possible risk management exposures or solutions. You are encouraged to retain your own expert consultants and legal advisors in order to develop a risk management plan specific to your own activities.