Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips and falls are major causes of workplace injuries in the maritime industry and can lead to overboard incidents. The following are some definitions that can help you distinguish between slips, trips and falls:
- A slip occurs when the foot skids, usually on a wet or slippery surface (e.g., ice) and the person falls backward or forward.
There are many things in this photo that can cause workers to slip, trip, or fall.
- A trip occurs when an obstacle stops the foot and the person falls forward.
- Same-level falls can be the result of an unrecoverable slip or trip. Another type of same-level fall is a step and fall, when the front foot lands on a surface that is lower than expected. In this type of fall, the person usually falls forward.
- Elevated falls include falls from stairs, equipment, ladders, and falls through holes in decks, and uncovered or unguarded hatches.
Many factors can contribute to slips, trips, and falls on a barge. Some of these include:
- gear and equipment on the deck
- changing walking speed or direction
- slippery surfaces (oil, ice and snow)
- fatigue
- carrying heavy objects
- visibility
- unsuitable footwear
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-1. Which of the following includes falls from stairs, equipment, ladders, and falls through holes in decks, and uncovered or unguarded hatches?
You forgot to answer the question!