Did you know that slips, trips, and falls account for 15% of all accidental deaths, second only to automobile fatalities?1 They are also one of the leading causes of accidents at CSUN.
- CSUN’s Environmental Health and Safety department investigates all campus accidents and has determined some common factors in slip and fall incidents:
- Wet or uneven surfaces
- Footwear (elevated heels increase risk substantially)
- Distractions
- So what can YOU do to help prevent a slip, trip or fall? Here are a few simple tips for keeping you on your feet and off the ground:
- Be aware of where you are walking/stepping and avoid wet areas when possible. Spilled drinks in buildings are especially hard to spot.
- On rainy days, wipe your feet when entering a building. Mats have been placed at all building entrances for this purpose.
- Know that high heeled shoes increase the risk of a trip or fall. Consider bringing a 2nd pair of walking shoes that can be used when walking long distances or on rainy days
- Avoid distractions while walking. Carrying books or boxes in your arms or using a cell phone make it less likely you will spot and avoid a hazard.
You can help! If you see a hazard such as a spilled liquid or a broken sidewalk, report it to Work Control at X-2222.