Costs of Slips, Trips, & Falls

Slips, trips, and falls can happen anywhere in the workplace. Slips and trips can result in falls, and possibly disability or death. Costs to the employer and worker can be substantial. Costs to the employer can include the following:

• Loss of productivity and business
• Increased industrial insurance premiums
• Costs associated with training a replacement worker

Slips, trips, and falls can cost the employee as well. These costs can include the following:

• Lost wages
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Pain
• Temporary or permanent disability
• Reduced quality of life
• Depression
• Death

Injuries from falls create a considerable financial burden. There are workers' compensation claims and medical costs associated with workplace accidents. These costs have been estimated at approximately $70 billion annually in the United States. In fact, falls are the primary cause of lost time at work, and 22 percent of falls result in more than 31 days of missed work. Responsible employers have an interest in maintaining a safe workplace and avoiding job-related injuries. OSHA estimates that, on average, approximately 202,066 serious injuries and 345 fatalities occur annually among workers directly affected by the final standard. These employers will invest time and resources to ensure that all employees enjoy a safe work environment.

To learn more about Walking Working Surfaces visit our Walking Working Surfaces & Personal Fall Protection Systems Online Training web page.