Many employees are injured in the workplace resulting from slips, trips or falls. These injuries can be serious. Employees in Early Childhood are exposed to these types of injuries due to the nature of the working environment and potential hazards such as playground areas and equipment. Employers and employees need to work collaboratively to reduce risk in the workplace by:
- Assessing the risks associated with slips, trips and falls under two metres;
- Implementing solutions to control or mitigate the risks; and
- Conducting regular workplace inspections.
Common hazards identified as risks for slip, trip and fall injuries include:
- Flooring – uneven floor surfaces; wet or slippery floor surfaces and spillages can all be potentially hazardous. How do you effectively prevent injuries in these spaces?
- Footwear – High heeled shoes are not considered appropriate footwear for the playground. Do you and your staff all wear appropriate footwear?
- Ramps – does your centre have access ramps? Are trolleys used on ramps? Are ramp surfaces covered appropriately to prevent slips?
- Cluttered workspaces – are floors, walkways, entrances and exits free from obstruction, low obstacles and cables?
- Equipment storage - do you have adequate storage areas for equipment and cleaning products?
- Personal storage – is there appropriate storage for handbags and personal items for staff?
- Stairs – does your centre have stairs? Are stairs appropriately covered to prevent trips or falls? Do stairs have appropriate handrails?
- Steps or stools – do you use appropriate equipment for standing if required to hang artwork on the walls?
A safety risk assessment can identify potential risks and appropriate solutions to minimise risk to staff, visitors and the children in your care. Having safety checklists in place and conducting regular checks can help identify potential hazards and help keep your workplace safe.
AFS Group can conduct safety risk assessments and assist with policies and procedures or safety checklists. Contact AFS Group today via email contact@afsgroup.net.au or call 1300 660 164 for a free over the phone consultation to discuss your requirements.
Stay safe and well from all the team at AFS Group www.afsgroup.net.au