Environment Plays an Important Role in Slip and Falls

While slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, the design of an environment plays a big role in how often these incidents occur. Business owners concerned with premises liability can act to reduce potential slip and fall accidents on their properties.

The S.A.F.E. Way of Slip and Fall Prevention

One method property owners may want to explore for improving safety is through the Surface, Awareness, Footwear, and Environment (SAFE) program. When surface areas change, slip and falls increase. That is especially true if there is an elevation change of less than one foot. Other slip triggers include surface material transitions, such as tile to wood. Transitions usually indicate a change in necessary traction. A surface’s condition plays a major role, with worn-out or damaged surfaces requiring immediate repair. Surfaces may also become contaminated with various materials, such as oil or water.

Businesses cannot control the footwear worn by customers, but they can recommend suitable footwear for employees. For example, workers in areas where slipping may prove more common may not wear heels over a certain height, or the treads of footwear should have a grip rather than a smooth surface. Footwear may vary by season, so standards set for winter months might not work for warm weather.

Reducing Premises Liability

Simple steps can significantly lessen the odds of a serious slip and fall accident. These include:

• Carefully marking all designated walkways
• Ensuring all areas are well-lit
• Delineating any type of elevation change
• Fixing obstructions in a surface area, or using signs or caution tape to warn those in the vicinity
• For outside workers, provide headlamps or other lighting sources if they are working in a dimly-lit area
• Install matting at all entrances to reduce contaminants that may come indoors via foot and equipment traffic
• Have shovels, sand, and similar safety equipment readily available during inclement weather
• Identify all areas inside and outside the building where slipping and/or contamination is most likely, and post warning signs appropriately
• Alerting staff via signs, as well as text or email messages, to take care because of weather conditions

Clean-Up Plans

When major facility upgrades are planned, it is crucial to consider the types of surfaces and lighting used to reduce any potential accidents. Workplaces should have a clean-up plan for weather and environmental-related hazards. That includes creating a score sheet to prioritize areas most in need of attention when there is ice, snow, or spills.

Philadelphia Slip and Fall Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates Help Slip and Fall Victims Claim Compensation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, you need the services of the experienced Philadelphia slip and fall lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates. Call us today at 215-569-9100 for a free consultation or contact us online. We are centrally located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and serve clients from the surrounding areas.