Slips, trips, and falls (STFs) are among the most common causes of injuries at Berkeley Lab and while running personal errands outside of work. Several of our colleagues have suffered serious injuries from STFs, including facial bruises, twisted ankles, knee strains or bruises, and cuts. Over the past five years, 13% of all recordable injuries have been caused by STFs, and they already account for 20% of injuries this year.
These statistics are concerning and show that such events happen daily because of distractions, rushing between meetings, juggling multiple tasks, walking in familiar areas, and operating on autopilot. None of this means carelessness; these are common human behaviors.
Berkeley Lab’s hillside setting is breathtaking. The rolling hills, winding roads, sharp turns, uneven paths, and numerous outdoor staircases offer us various ways to navigate our site and provide opportunities for lunchtime walks to stay active. Repairs and maintenance are ongoing, and addressing any potential hazards takes time.
In the meantime, here’s how we can help each other prevent STFs:
- Use handrails whenever you can. Even holding your hand over the rail can improve your chances of catching yourself if you stumble.
- Try carrying less. Overloading your arms can block your view of the path. Making multiple trips or sharing the load can make walking a safer experience.
- Trying new eyewear can take some time. Fresh prescriptions might temporarily change how stairs or slopes appear. Give yourself time to adjust before attempting difficult paths.
- Consider putting your phone away. Walking while using a phone is common today, but looking down at a screen while moving can make it harder to see uneven ground or stairs. A quick stop to check messages is often a safer choice.
- Share what you observe. If you see a damaged step, broken concrete, or a pathway that feels unsafe, inform Berkeley Lab’s Facilities Division. Your observations help prioritize repairs.
For more information on ATAP News articles, contact caw@lbl.gov.
