A review of our claims data from the last 5 years found that slip, trip, and fall incidents account for approximately 30.5% of all reported claims (2,686 of 8,795 claims). Even more concerning, these incidents represent approximately 40.6% of total claim costs incurred, generating more than $72.9 million in losses out of approximately $179.8 million in total claim costs.
While slips, trips, and falls make up about one-third of all claims, they account for more than two-fifths of total claim dollars, indicating that these incidents often result in severe and costly injuries.
What Is Causing These Incidents?
A review of the claim descriptions shows several recurring causes:
- Walking surface hazards such as wet or recently mopped floors, water or spilled liquids, uneven flooring and damaged surfaces, or floor mats that shifted, curled, or created tripping hazards
- Stairway falls including missing steps, wet or icy stairs, carrying materials while using stairs, losing footing during ascent or descent
- Ice and snow conditions in parking lots, on sidewalks, near building entrances and loading areas
- Falls from elevated surfaces such as ladders, trucks and loading docks and platforms.
- Housekeeping and obstructions including boxes and supplies, equipment, cords, debris and objects left in walkways.
Good housekeeping remains one of the most effective controls for preventing these injuries.
Prevention Strategies
Keep Walking Surfaces Safe
- Clean spills immediately
- Use wet floor signs during cleaning
- Repair damaged flooring and uneven surfaces
- Secure or replace worn floor mats
- Maintain adequate lighting in all work areas
Improve Stair Safety
- Always use handrails
- Keep stairways clear of materials and equipment
- Ensure stair treads are clean and dry
- Avoid carrying loads that block your view
- Report damaged stairs immediately
Manage Winter Conditions
- Apply salt or ice melt promptly
- Clear snow from entrances and sidewalks
- Inspect outdoor walking surfaces throughout the day
- Wear slip-resistant footwear
Improve Housekeeping
- Keep aisles and hallways clear
- Store materials properly
- Remove tripping hazards immediately
- Conduct regular housekeeping inspections
Slip, trip, and fall incidents are our client’s single largest injury category, accounting for 30.5% of all claims and 40.6% of total claims costs. The majority of these injuries stem from preventable hazards such as wet floors, stairways, ice, poor housekeeping, uneven walking surfaces, and improper use of ladders or elevated areas.
By focusing on housekeeping, floor maintenance, winter weather controls, and stair safety, organizations can significantly reduce both injury frequency and claim costs.
Remember: Every slip, trip, or fall has the potential to cause a serious injury—but most can be prevented through awareness, hazard identification, and prompt corrective action.