94 ▶ TOPIC 7 MECHANICAL AND FALLING HAZARDS

ACTIVITY 7.2

List the causes of falls at the workplace.

Based on your observation, state other serious injuries caused by falls at the
workplace.

Post your answer in myINSPIRE online forum.

7.5 KINDS OF FALLING HAZARDS

There are four categories of falling hazards, each occurring in different conditions
with different effects. These categories are trip and fall, stump and fall, step and
fall, and slip and fall.

7.5.1 Trip and Fall

Trip and fall accidents occur when workers encounter an unseen foreign object in
their path. Electrical cable signs are often in the way and might cause employees
to trip and fall over. When an uneven walking surface, with one side higher than
the other, is painted in similar colours, workers might not notice that the surface
is uneven. Thus, when there is a difference in the height of the surface, different
colours must be used to distinguish between the different heights.

7.5.2 Stump and Fall

Floors covered with sticky chemical substances may cause workers to stump and
fall. Such accidents may cause back and leg injuries. Spilled syrup and beverages
can also cause similar accidents.

7.5.3 Step and Fall

Step and fall accidents occur when a personÊs foot stepped into an unexpected
hole. Such accidents can cause back and leg injuries. Drain metal cover can also
cause workers to step and fall if the gap in the metal cover is too big. This can
also happen when there are too many steps on a staircase because the worker
might think he or she has reached the bottom of the stairs when, in reality, there
are still more steps to go.

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