Slips, trips, and falls are common causes of injuries in the healthcare industry. They can occur anywhere – in hospitals, nursing homes, doctor’s offices, and other medical facilities.
Why do these accidents happen, how can they be prevented, and what should you do if you are injured in a fall at work?
Why are there so many slips, trips, and falls (STFs) in healthcare?
In a healthcare setting, STFs account for more than 66% of injuries among workers. There are several reasons for these accidents, including:
- Wet spots on floors from water, urine, and other fluids
- Lack of clear pathways in patient rooms
- Trip hazards, such as electrical cords, medical equipment, and uneven flooring
- Poor lighting
- Rushing through tasks due to a lack of staffing
- Improper footwear
Fortunately, there are some steps that employers can take to reduce the risk of these accidents, such as:
- Keep work areas clean and free of clutter.
- Clean up spills promptly and use wet floor signs.
- Provide staff with non-slip shoes.
- Conduct regular safety inspections and immediately report hazards.
- Train employees on safe work procedures.
If you are injured in a fall at work, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Be sure to tell the medical staff that the injury occurred at work so they can document it appropriately. Once you have received treatment, you should notify your employer and file a claim with your workers’ compensation insurance. In most cases, your employer will be responsible for paying your medical bills and lost wages.