Housekeeping, Slips and Trip Prevention
A Clear Walkway Is a Safety Control, Not a Cosmetic Standard
A spill, trailing lead, loose off-cut or poorly placed tool can turn an ordinary route into a fall or blocked escape path. Good housekeeping is not something saved for the end of the shift. Walking and working surfaces must remain orderly, and floors should be kept dry so far as feasible, while the job is underway. When work creates a new obstruction or contamination, control it immediately instead of expecting the next person to notice it in time.
Controls to confirm
- Inspect access routes, stairs, platforms and work areas before starting and as conditions change; remove tools, packaging, off-cuts and other obstructions, and keep emergency routes and access to safety equipment clear.
- Clean spills promptly using the approved method, address the source, and isolate or clearly warn people away from the affected area until the surface is safe; provide drainage or a suitable dry standing place where a wet process is unavoidable.
- Route leads, hoses and materials away from walkways or protect them with an approved system; report and control damaged flooring, uneven surfaces, poor lighting and other defects until they are properly repaired.
Today’s action
Walk the route from today's work area to the nearest safe exit before the task starts. Remove one unnecessary obstruction and assign an owner for anything that cannot be corrected at once.
Source guidance
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