November's Safety Topic: Housekeeping to Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls in Office Environments
Did you know?
Slips, trips, and falls are a significant cause of workplace fatalities, resulting in 15% of all accidental deaths. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, these incidents are the second leading cause of workplace fatalities, surpassed only by motor vehicle accidents.
Even in an office setting, slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries. As part of the Courthouse Safety Committees ongoing commitment to workplace safety, we believe effective housekeeping is not just about cleanliness — it’s a compliance and injury prevention strategy.
Coos County’s hopes to minimizing potential hazards through safety education and code enforcement. With seasonal changes, increased indoor activity, and Oregon OSHA’s emphasis on walking-working surface safety, we hope to ensure a safe work place with walking and work areas being kept in a clean, orderly, and sanitary condition.
Housekeeping Controls for Office Safety
Housekeeping ensures a safe work environment. Cleaning regularly prevents clutter and hazards from forming. The following good housekeeping practices increase efficiency and reduces risks in the everyday workplace:
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Maintain clear walkways and egress paths — no boxes, cords, or stacked items
- OAR 437-002-1910.22(a)(2): Aisles and passageways must be kept clear
- OFC §315.3.1: Combustibles must not obstruct access or egress
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Secure cords and cables using cord covers or cable trays
- OSHA 1910.305(g)(1)(iv): Flexible cords must not run across walkways
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Implement a “Clean Desk Policy” to reduce clutter and fire load
- Encourages daily removal of excess paper, food wrappers, and personal items
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Use visual controls like floor tape, shelf labels, and signage
- OAR 437-002-1910.22(a)(1): Supports orderly and hazard-free workspaces
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Schedule monthly housekeeping audits with corrective tracking
- OAR 437-001-0765: Safety committees must identify and track hazards
Key Risk Factors:
- Loose cords and cables across/in walkways
- Paper clutter and stacked items near exits
- Wet entryways from rain and foot traffic
- Improper storage of boxes, binders, and supplies
- Unsecured rugs or mats
Tips to Prevent Slips, Trips and Falls:
- Walk instead of run
- Wear slip resistant shoes in wet conditions
- Attentive to surroundings
- Slow down
- Keep balanced
- Shorten strides in hazardous/slippery conditions
- Carry less, don’t over burden
- Identify and mark hazards, temporary and permanent
- Clean spills and hazards right away
Want to learn more?
https://www.saif.com/safety-and-health/topics/prevent-injuries/slips-trips-and-falls.html
https://osha.oregon.gov/OSHAPubs/checklists/work-enviro-general.pdfhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRwQ5ceNOHs&t=2s
https://safetyculture.com/topics/5s-lean/5-principles-of-5s
As always, please stay safe and remember Safety is EVERYONE’S Responsibility!
Courthouse Safety Committee
Ph: 541-396-7690
Email: safety@co.coos.or.us