Avoiding Slips, Trips, and Falls on the Jobsite

Slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common accidents on landscaping jobsites, yet they’re also among the most preventable. Whether you’re dealing with frozen surfaces in colder months, wet conditions during seasonal rains, or uneven ground at a property, it’s important to take proactive safety measures.

While most contractors understand the value of staying alert on the job, there’s often room to refine and reinforce safety practices. By taking the time to address common hazards and implement thoughtful precautions, you can establish a safer, more efficient jobsite.

From the Start

Reducing slips, trips, and falls starts with understanding your environment. Every jobsite comes with its own set of challenges, and conditions can shift throughout the day. Take time at the beginning of each shift to survey the area for potential hazards—like spills, loose debris, or uneven surfaces.

If you’re working alongside a crew, your own awareness will only go so far. Clear communication becomes equally important. Brief but focused safety discussions help ensure every team member is aware of current conditions, task assignments, and equipment being used.

In Canada, weather is almost always a factor. Incorporating weather tracking into daily planning and using materials like traction mats, non-slip coverings, or drainage solutions can help keep sites safer regardless of the season.

Practical Steps

Preventing slips, trips, and falls requires a combination of foresight, best practices, and the right equipment. While every jobsite is unique, these core strategies always apply:

1. Wear the Right Footwear

Safety starts at your feet. Slip-resistant boots with soles designed for specific surfaces—whether wet concrete, loose gravel, or icy paths—provide extra traction to navigate challenging conditions.

2. Maintain a Clean and Organized Jobsite

A cluttered site invites accidents. Consider a “clean-as-you-go” policy, where spills are cleaned immediately, tools are stored properly, and walkways remain clear of obstructions.

3. Use Proper Lighting

Visibility is essential for safety. Dimly lit areas obscure hazards like loose cables or uneven surfaces. Portable LED lighting towers, motion-activated systems, and weather-resistant fixtures can help you see and respond to your surroundings.

4. Inspect and Repair Surfaces Regularly

Even minor imperfections in floors, walkways, or ramps can cause trips and falls. Conduct routine inspections to address issues like cracks, loose tiles, or slippery areas. Temporary fixes, such as placing mats over problem spots, can buy time while permanent repairs are scheduled.

5. Prioritize Safe Equipment Use

For workers operating heavy machinery or climbing onto equipment, maintaining three points of contact—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand—is the rule of thumb for stability. This simple practice significantly reduces the risk of falls when mounting or dismounting equipment.

Beyond the Basics

Some environments and tasks come with heightened risks, requiring extra attention and proactive safety measures. Here are a few examples and recommendations:

Flatbed Trailers and Loading Zones

These areas combine heavy equipment, moving loads, and tight spaces, making vigilance crucial. Maintaining consistent eye contact with operators establishes clear communication and minimizes the risk of accidents. It’s best to stay within marked safety zones and avoid sudden movements around machinery to create a safer workspace.

Corners and Doorways

Narrow spaces, like doorways or sharp corners, often hide unexpected hazards such as loose thresholds, uneven transitions, or misplaced tools. Take wide turns and scan your path to avoid tripping or colliding with unseen obstacles. Regularly check for clutter or unstable flooring.

Wet Work Areas

In spaces prone to water accumulation—whether from rain, industrial processes, or high-traffic zones—slippery surfaces are a constant concern. Non-slip mats and well-placed drainage zones can prevent water from pooling and reduce the risk of falls. Slip-resistant footwear is also a must-have.

Weather-Related

Weather-related risks, such as icy walkways, rain-soaked ramps, or slippery elevated surfaces, are an inherent part of working in Canada’s diverse climate. We’d be remiss not to reiterate these challenges:

Winter Preparation

Snow and ice introduce significant hazards, from slick walkways to snow-covered platforms. Salting paths, applying ice melt, and placing rubber mats near entryways can help reduce slip risks.

Rainy Conditions

Wet surfaces can quickly become hazardous, especially on ramps, platforms, or walkways. Improve traction with slip-resistant coatings, specialized footwear, or temporary coverings over slippery floors.

A Proactive Approach

Aside from avoiding accidents and injuries, preventing slips, trips, and falls will increase your productivity and extend your business’ longevity. Looking for special gear and tools to promote jobsite safety? From slip-resistant surfaces to weather-resistant lighting and tools, SiteOne® Landscape Supply offers many products designed to address Canada’s unique working conditions. Visit your nearest SiteOne branch and speak with an associate to find the solutions you need to stay safe and keep your projects on track.