The Dangers of Falls with Improper Floor Care

Hospitals are places of healing, but they can also be sites of significant risk, particularly when it comes to slips, trips, and falls. These incidents are more than just minor accidents; they can lead to severe injuries for patients, visitors, and staff. Understanding the dangers associated with hospital floors and exploring effective ways to enhance floor safety is crucial for promoting a safer healthcare environment. 

The risk of falls is not only dangerous, but also expensive. With nearly 1 million falls occurring in hospitals every year, the costs for hospitals can rise to the millions. Luckily, facilities can work to reduce the risk of some common causes of accidents every day through different floor care practices.

How to Help Reduce the Risk of Falls:

1. Implementing Slip-Resistant Flooring

Choosing the right flooring material is essential. Slip-resistant vinyl or rubber flooring can help mitigate hazards. These materials are designed to provide better traction and can be particularly beneficial in high-risk areas like bathrooms and kitchenettes.

2. Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Routine cleaning and maintenance are critical. Regular inspections should be conducted to identify and address any potential hazards, such as worn-out flooring or loose tiles. Implementing a preventive maintenance schedule can keep surfaces safe and clean. Maintaining your floor cleaning machines also helps reduce damage to your floors.

3. Prompt Spill Management

Establishing a clear protocol with your staff for spill management is vital. This includes immediate cleanup procedures and effective signage to warn individuals of wet floors. Also, give your patients and visitors an easy way to report spills or other potentially slippery conditions. 

4. Educating Staff and Patients

Training healthcare and EVSworkers on best practices for floor safety can help reduce the number of accidents. It is vital that EVS staff understand the correct machines to use on each floor type to prevent causing further damage. Similarly, educating patients and visitors about appropriate footwear and awareness of their surroundings can promote a culture of safety. 

5. Use of Anti-Slip Treatments

Applying anti-slip treatments to existing floors can significantly reduce slip risks. These treatments create a textured surface that improves traction without altering the appearance of the flooring.

6. Installing Adequate Lighting

Poorly lit areas can contribute to accidents. Ensuring that all areas of the hospital are well-lit, particularly stairways and hallways, can enhance visibility and reduce the risk of slips and falls. Try checking the lighting at least twice a year, at the beginning and end of daylight savings time, to see how the change in season affects lighting.

7. Utilizing Floor Mats

Strategically placing absorbent and anti-slip mats in high-traffic areas can help catch spills before they become a hazard. These mats should be regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure effectiveness, possibly more frequently during wet seasons

An ounce of prevention and maintenance now can save you a pound of pain and high costs later. At ReadyList, our Floor Care and Rapid Service Responder products can help you keep your floors safe while possibly saving you from expensive costs associated with dangerous falls.