To support mining sector firms, Workplace Safety North (WSN) is pleased to offer a series of tools and resources that address slip, trip, and fall (STF) hazards. These resources, to be issued throughout the year, are designed to complement existing training and consultation services.
STF hazards are a significant concern in the mining industry, contributing to a high number of workplace injuries year after year. Despite ongoing safety measures, incidents involving STFs remain one of the leading causes of injuries in mines, underscoring the need for continuous focus on these hazards. In fact, studies have shown that slip, trip, and fall incidents account for a substantial proportion of all workplace injuries in mining, leading to lost workdays, medical expenses, and long-term physical disabilities.
The mining environment is inherently hazardous due to its challenging terrain, heavy equipment, and often wet or slippery conditions. Workers face uneven surfaces, debris, and exposure to environmental elements like rain, snow, or ice, all of which increase the risk of falling. These types of incidents can happen in a variety of scenarios, from slipping on wet surfaces to falling from equipment or ladders, or tripping on debris in mining operations.
Injuries resulting from slips, trips, and falls can lead to downtime, both from the immediate need for medical attention and from the time it takes to implement corrective measures. This can cause delays in production and result in financial implications.
Therefore, it is crucial for mining companies to prioritize hazard identification and prevention strategies related to slips, trips, and falls. Regular maintenance of walkways, proper training for workers on how to navigate hazardous areas, and ensuring that appropriate footwear is worn can significantly reduce the risk.
WSN is committed to assisting mining firms in their journey toward zero-injury workplaces by providing dedicated support to address these specific hazards, especially while operations prepare for this year’s compliance initiative targeting STF hazards from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). The MLITSD will work through this compliance initiative in two phases. While Phase 1 is dedicated to education and awareness, the second phase will include focused inspections at worksites across Ontario.
You can review this recorded webinar, hosted by WSN, the MLITSD, and Infrastructure Health and Safety Association, which gives insight on what you need to know to get ready for this year’s compliance initiative. For more information, check out the mining-specific resources on WSN’s fall prevention webpage. Please reach out to WSN for any additional guidance from one of our Health and Safety Specialists.
WSN – Related
Working at Heights Safety Training
Working at Heights Refresher Training
Course Spotlight: Working at Heights