November is Fall Prevention Month in Canada - a campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of falls and encouraging individuals and organizations to adopt proactive fall prevention measures in their daily routines. With falls being one of the leading causes of workplace injuries in Canada, it’s crucial for every workplace to understand and implement fall prevention practices to keep employees safe.
Falls in Canada: The Updated Numbers
Falls continue to be a significant cause of injury across Canada. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), falls led to over 685,000 emergency room visits in 2021, with a substantial number linked to workplace incidents. This translates to approximately 1,875 fall-related injuries every day, many of which result in lost work time, physical harm, and substantial costs for employers and employees alike.
- Workplace Falls: In workplaces, falls caused about 140,663 lost-time injuries in Canada between 2020 and 2022, representing about 16% of all lost-time claims, according to data from the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada. Nearly 200 workers died from falls during this period. High risk sectors include construction, maintenance, and window cleaning, where workers frequently work at heights.
- Seasonal Hazards: In winter, slip-related falls on icy surfaces increase, making it essential to address winter-specific risks as temperatures drop. Snow and ice can be dangerous for anyone walking outdoors, from employees in outdoor sectors to pedestrians commuting on foot.
For a deeper look at Canadian injury data, check out the latest information from AWCBC – Association of Workers Compensation Boards of Canada.
Understanding Slips, Trips, and Falls
Falls in the workplace often result from slips, trips, or loss of balance, and can be divided into two main types:
- Falls to the Same Level: These account for about 70% of workplace falls and are typically due to slips on wet or icy surfaces, tripping over obstacles, or walking on uneven flooring.
- Falls from Height: Representing the remaining 30%, these incidents involve falls from ladders, scaffolding, rooftops, or other elevated surfaces. The construction industry sees a high proportion of these falls, making safety protocols and compliance measures particularly crucial in this sector.
Fall Prevention Strategies for Work and Home
There are numerous ways to mitigate fall risks through practical measures that can be applied in both professional and personal settings. Here are key strategies to reduce the likelihood of falls:
- Spill Management: Clean up spills immediately, and if quick cleanup isn’t possible, use signage to warn others of the hazard.
- Surface Safety: Install non-slip mats in high-risk areas like polished or slick floors and mark any uneven surfaces.
- Winter Readiness: During winter months, ensure outdoor pathways are regularly salted or sanded to prevent ice-related slips.
- Clear Walkways: Keep walkways free of clutter and ensure they are well-lit, especially in areas with high foot traffic.
- Secure Tripping Hazards: Tape down loose cables and ensure carpets or floor mats lie flat to prevent trips.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Encourage employees to wear anti-slip footwear or ice traction aids, particularly during winter.
- Mindful Movement: Remind everyone to walk carefully, adjust their stride to conditions, and use handrails on stairs.
- Safety Training and Compliance: Regularly train employees on fall prevention practices, including the use of fall-protection equipment when working at heights.
How ECOH Can Help You Meet Compliance and Safety Standards
At ECOH, we specialize in designing and implementing customized Fall Awareness and Prevention Programs aligned with Canadian safety standards. Our services include fall risk assessments, compliance audits, and employee training tailored to the specific needs of high-risk sectors such as construction and maintenance.
The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development has announced an inspection plan for 2024-25 targeting fall prevention compliance in residential construction. This initiative emphasizes the importance of working at heights regulations and reinforces the need for employers to ensure that their fall prevention training, protocols and equipment meet current safety standards. For residential and commercial construction companies, this focused inspection plan is a timely reminder to assess and improve fall safety measures.
Whether you need assistance with on-site inspections, program development, or compliance with working-at-heights regulations, ECOH’s experts are ready to support you. Contact us today to enhance safety in your workplace and learn more about our comprehensive range of environmental, health, and safety services.
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