Fall Prevention: November OHS Update on Reducing Fall Risks

As we approach the winter months, it’s a great time to focus on reducing fall risks at home, in the workplace, and in our daily lives. Fall Prevention Month is officially observed in November and is an excellent time to focus on the risks associated with falls that persist throughout the year—particularly as the weather changes, and hazards like ice, snow, and reduced daylight become more prevalent.

Why Falls Matter

Falls are a significant public health issue, affecting individuals of all ages—especially older adults and children. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can save lives.

Did you know:

• Falls are one of the leading causes of injury-related hospitalizations in older adults, and they also affect children.
• In Canada, 20-30% of seniors fall each year, and 85% of senior injury-related hospitalizations are due to falls.
• Falls are responsible for 95% of hip fractures in older adults, and many of these incidents happen in the home.
• Falls are the leading cause of injury for children aged 0 to 14.
• Falls are also a top cause of workplace injuries and fatalities, especially in high-risk industries like construction, where falls from heights account for the highest rate of fatalities

Understanding the Major Causes of Falls

Falls don’t just happen—they often result from specific causes. By understanding these risks, we can take steps to reduce them.

1. Medications: Some medications cause dizziness or drowsiness. Always check with your doctor about side effects.
2. Poor Vision: Vision issues make it harder to spot hazards. Regular eye exams and corrective lenses improve safety.
3. Physical Environment: A cluttered or unsafe environment increases fall risk. Keep walkways clear and secure rugs.
4. Slippery Surfaces: Wet or icy surfaces are major hazards. Wear non-slip footwear and be cautious on slick surfaces.
5. Climbing Stools or Ladders: Using unstable equipment to reach high places is risky. Use sturdy ladders or step stools on solid ground.

Top Fall Prevention Strategies – The Four P’s

We can reduce the risk of falls by implementing effective strategies. The following Four P’s can be applied at home, work, or any environment where falls pose a risk.

1. Pain: Address pain early, whether from arthritis, injury, or muscle stiffness. Pain can impair balance, so manage it with help from your healthcare provider to reduce fall risk.
2. Position: Maintain good posture to improve balance. Keep weight evenly distributed, avoid crossing your legs, and avoid slouching to stay stable.
3. Placement: Keep spaces clear of clutter and ensure important items are within easy reach. Avoid placing objects in walkways that could cause tripping.
4. Personal Needs: Health conditions and medications, such as dizziness or poor vision, can increase fall risk. Keep your healthcare provider informed and take necessary preventive actions.

Fall Prevention Tips: Home and Workplace Safety

Falls can happen anywhere—whether at home, at work, or in public spaces. By taking simple steps to reduce hazards, we can minimize the risk of falls in any environment. Here are key fall prevention strategies that apply universally, whether at home or in the workplace:

1. Eliminate Tripping Hazards: Keep walkways clear of obstacles—remove loose rugs, secure cords, and tidy up workspaces to prevent trips.
2. Improve Lighting: Ensure all areas, especially stairs, hallways, and workspaces, are well-lit. Use night lights at home and proper lighting in work areas.
3. Install Grab Bars & Non-Slip Surfaces: In bathrooms, add grab bars and non-slip mats. In workplaces, provide non-slip footwear and maintain dry, slip-free surfaces.
4. Maintain Stairs & Pathways: Keep stairs clear and in good repair at home. At work, regularly inspect walkways and ensure they’re free from debris.
5. Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with good traction and support, especially in environments prone to wet or uneven surfaces.
6. Be Aware of Weather Hazards: Monitor weather conditions for outdoor workers, and indoors, address wet floors and spills immediately.
7. Conduct Regular Safety Inspections: Periodically check for hazards at home and in the workplace, fixing any issues before they lead to a fall.

What to Do If You Fall

If you fall, stay calm and take steps to minimize injury. Try to land on your buttocks to reduce impact. Don’t rush to get up—first, assess yourself for injuries. If you’re feeling dizzy or in pain, stay on the ground and call for help. If you cannot get up, seek assistance immediately. Remember, falling doesn’t mean you should stop being active—keeping active helps maintain strength and balance, reducing the risk of future falls.

Remember: Falls are preventable! Stay aware of your surroundings, manage health risks, and implement fall prevention strategies to reduce the chance of injury. Let’s all take a moment this November to evaluate our surroundings and make safety a priority. Creating safer environments is always worth the effort.