Slips, trips and falls are among the most frequent and costly incidents in the retail industry. According to Business and Industry Connection Magazine, these accidents cost U.S. businesses more than $60 billion per year. And, the cost per claim is, on average, $20,000 to $50,000, excluding hidden costs like time, travel, business interruptions and more.
Slips, Trips, and Falls Are Expensive but Preventable
You’re likely aware of some of the most common ways to prevent slip, trip and fall claims, such as:
- Spill prevention and prompt clean-up
- Carpeted entryways and absorbent mats, particularly in high-traffic areas
- Clean and visible wet floor signage
- Routine monitoring and floor inspections
- Giving special attention to higher-risk departments, such as produce and meat
While these steps may seem simple, their effectiveness depends on consistent execution and employee accountability. A strong prevention strategy should also involve technology, training and documentation.
Building a Comprehensive Prevention Plan
While basic strategies like using mats and cleaning up spills are important, a more thorough plan can help to further reduce risk and create a safer environment for both employees and customers.
Implement Scheduled Floor Monitoring
Routine inspections are one of the most effective ways to identify and address hazards. Whether you prefer traditional paper checklists or app-based inspection tools, create a consistent schedule for team members to check key areas like:
- Entryways and sidewalks
- Storefront and checkout areas
- High-moisture zones (produce, meat, seafood)
- Restrooms and stockrooms
- Aisles and endcaps
Encourage team members to document the time, location and condition of each area during every check. This not only helps to reduce the likelihood of a slip, trip or fall, but it could serve as evidence if a claim is made.
Focus on Staff Training and Engagement
Even the best tools, policies and technology won’t work without employee buy-in. Make sure to provide team members with initial and ongoing safety training that covers topics like:
- How to identify common slip and trip hazards
- Steps to respond to spills or obstructions
- The importance of timely reporting and documentation
Recognize employees who consistently follow safety protocols and consider assigning “safety champions” in each department to help reinforce standards.
Maintain Clean and Well-Lit Floors
Basic facility upkeep is critical to preventing slips, trips or falls. Make sure the store’s floors are:
- Cleaned regularly with slip-resistant products
- Free of debris, uneven surfaces or other tripping hazards
- Well-lit to improve visibility
- Proactively maintained, repaired and replaced, especially in older buildings
Use Photo Documentation
Smartphones or tablets that are connected to store Wi-Fi can act as powerful documentation tools. Consider setting up company devices to automatically upload photos to a cloud-based storage service like iCloud, Dropbox or Google Drive. Employees should be trained to:
- Walk each zone of the store on a set schedule
- Take clear, time-stamped photos of each area
- Document hazards and their resolutions when found
This process can help to verify compliance and provides a digital trail that can support a legal defense if needed.
Benefits of Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention
Investing in slip, trip and fall prevention can pay off. A strong risk management program can help reduce the number of incidents, support a safer workplace and create a more comfortable shopping experience for your customers. No matter which strategies you use, the key is consistency.
How Higginbotham Can Help
At Higginbotham, we understand that potential injuries are everywhere, especially in grocery stores. Our insurance and risk management professionals have worked with clients in various industries to make sure their employees and their customers are protected. To learn more about how Higginbotham can help your business, talk to one of our commercial insurance specialists today.
