How Distributors Can Ensure Worker Safety During National Safety Month

Since its establishment in 1996, the National Safety Council has designated June as National Safety Month. This initiative aims to heighten awareness about safety and health risks, specifically focusing on reducing workplace deaths and injuries.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there was a 5.7 percent increase in fatal work-related injuries in 2022 compared to 2021. 5,486 people lost their lives due to workplace accidents in 2022.

According to the National Safety Council, slips and falls are a leading cause of preventable workplace injuries. To help prevent slip-and-fall accidents, Michael Wilson, CEO and President, AFFLINK, encourages building managers to have independent distributors conduct a floorcare audit.

This comprehensive assessment involves thoroughly inspecting the facility’s floor surfaces, identifying potential hazards, and recommending solutions to mitigate them.

It should reveal:

• Where there are unexpected changes in the floor surface;
• Note dangerous transition areas between floor surfaces that can lead to a slip or fall;
• Identify grease and oil build-up on floors, which can attach to shoe bottoms and spread throughout a facility;
• Suggest where high-performance matting is needed. High-performance matting captures and holds moisture, grease, and oil, preventing it from spreading;
• Point out areas that are poorly lit; and
• Determine if the floor is being cleaned properly.

10 Quick Tips to Prevent Slip and Fall Accidents in the Workplace

1. Scan the work area for potential hazards before carrying or moving anything;
2. If walking over a slippery surface, don’t step, shuffle. This will increase your stability;
3. Check out wearable fall prevention devices that help prevent falls;
4. Heat is now a work safety concern. Last year was the hottest on record; this summer may be worse;
5. Ensure step ladders have a locking device;
6. Clean up spills immediately; if unable to clean up spills, surround them with warning cones;
7. Never stand on a chair to reach for something high – get a ladder or step stool;
8. Address damaged hard floor surfaces and carpets;
9. Don’t carry packages or boxes above your shoulders; and
10. If carrying heavy boxes up or down stairs, place both feet on each step before taking the next step. Helps maintain balance.

For more information, visit https://www.afflink.com.