FACTS

Primary hazards and types of injuries associated with slips, trips, and falls in landscaping:

1. Uneven and Slippery Surfaces

• • Uneven Terrain: Landscaping often involves working on natural and uneven ground surfaces.
  • Wet or Muddy Conditions: Rain can create wet and slippery conditions​.

2. Obstacles and Clutter

• • Tools and Equipment: When left on the ground these can create tripping hazards if not properly stored.

3. Improper Footwear

• • Wearing inappropriate footwear without adequate grip increases the risk of slipping.

Types of Injuries

1. Sprains and Strains

• • Result from sudden falls or trips, causing overextension of muscles and tendons.

2. Fractures

• • Falls from heights or tripping over obstacles can lead to broken bones.

3. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

• • Severe impacts during falls cause concussions and traumatic brain injuries.

4. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

• • Falls can lead to herniated discs and, spinal cord damage.

STATS

• In 2023, slips, trips, and falls accounted for over 450,540 work injuries and 865 work-related deaths across various industries, including landscaping.
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, slips, trips, and falls are one of the most common causes of non-fatal workplace injuries. They accounted for 27% of all workplace injuries in 2021
• In the construction industry, which includes landscaping, slips, trips, and falls are particularly prevalent. In 2021, nearly one in five workplace deaths occurred in the construction sector, with over 33% of these deaths attributed to falls.
• In Canada, slips, trips, and falls are also a leading cause of workplace injuries. These incidents account for a significant number of workers’ compensation claims and result in substantial lost work time.