Wear Slip-Resistant Shoes
A discussion of the use of proper footwear is an important component of a comprehensive slip, trip, and fall (STF) prevention program.
All healthcare facility employees may benefit from these type of shoes. Food services, housekeeping, and maintenance staff are at greatest risk for a STF due to exposure to water, grease, slippery, uneven, and cluttered walking surfaces.
Shoe fit, comfort, and style are important factors that determine whether employees will actually wear the slip-resistant shoes. Therefore, employees should have an opportunity to try them on to find the proper fit before purchasing. Below is a list of various types of proper safety shoes.
- Slip-Resistance: Shoes should have non-slip soles to prevent falls on wet or slippery surfaces.
- Support and Cushioning: Good arch support and adequate cushioning to reduce fatigue and provide comfort during long shifts.
- Closed-Toe Design: Shoes should be closed-toe to protect against spills, drops, and sharp objects.
- Easy to Clean: Materials that are easy to disinfect to maintain hygiene standards.
- Breathability: Shoes should allow for air circulation to keep feet dry and reduce the risk of infections.
- Durability: Sturdy construction to withstand daily wear and tear in a busy healthcare environment.
Prevent Entry into Wet Areas
Use highly-visible caution signs to inform employees and visitors to be careful and avoid contaminated areas. You may want to also block off areas during floor cleaning, stripping, and waxing to prevent injuries.
Use barrier products, such as those shown in the images to the right or caution tape to prevent employees from entering an area being cleaned or from stepping on a spill. Make sure you also use a barrier device to prevent water and other fluids from entering hallways and cleaning rooms. Use these devices along with a tension bar or other blocking device so the floor barrier does not become a tripping hazard.
Note: You will need to remove all signs once the floor is clean and dry so they do not become commonplace and ignored by staff members.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-4. Which category of healthcare employees is at greater risk of experiencing a slip, trip, or fall?
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