Chances are this has happened to you – and it puts you at risk of a slip, trip and fall.

The following are among the many hazards on dairy farms that can result in a slip, trip or fall:
• Manure, wet feed, spilled water, oil or other slippery substances on the dairy barn floor.

• Hoses, electrical cords, piles of silage or cracked concrete that can be tripping hazards.

• Climbing ladders or working from heights without taking proper safety precautions.

Often, slips, trips and falls occur when running through a dairy barn or after failing to clean up the area once a task has been completed. Slips, trips and falls may result in painful fractures or broken bones. More serious falls from a ladder or the top of a silo could leave you paralyzed, brain-injured or even dead.

Tips to protect yourself:
• Keep your mind on the task at hand. Thinking about your date last night or the party you will be attending this coming weekend means you won’t be alert to potential slip, trip and fall hazards.

• Always practice “good housekeeping.” If you spill oil or water, clean it up. Don’t ignore other slippery substances on the floor. If you can’t clean them all up yourself, ask for help.

• Don’t throw used personal protective equipment (PPE) on the ground or floor. Put what you use back where it belongs or in a proper disposal container.

• Wear sturdy work boots or shoes with non-slip soles and good traction. Periodically check the condition of the soles to make sure they are not worn.

• ONLY work from heights if you have been authorized and have been trained. Your training should include knowing what safety precautions to take. These may include the use of fall protection equipment.

• Always practice ladder safety. Don’t set up a ladder on a slippery or uneven surface. Don’t carry anything in your hands when climbing. And stay off of the top rung.

• Use handrails when climbing steps. Check to see that the handrails are in good condition.

• Pay attention to the lighting before beginning a task. Poorly lit areas mean you may not see potential slip, trip and fall hazards.

• Walk – don’t run. Running, especially on slippery surfaces, is likely to result in a slip, trip and fall injury.

• Be especially careful when carrying large or bulky items that may block your view.

• Check your clothing at the start of the workday. Make sure your shoelaces are tied (and that they stay tied) and that your pants cuffs aren’t dragging on the floor or ground.

• Don’t jump on and off of high storage areas, silos, tanks or other equipment. Use a ladder or the steps that are provided.

• Know that changing weather conditions, such as rain or snow, can increase the chances of a slip, trip and fall. Keep all steps and entrance areas clear of snow, ice and other debris.

If you are injured:
If you slip, trip or fall and land on your back, your head, or think a bone might be broken, have someone promptly call 911 for professional emergency medical assistance. Don’t move unless you are in immediate danger (for example, if you fall in an area where you could get kicked by a cow).

If you see a co-worker fall from a ladder or other high location, immediately call 911 and notify your supervisor. Try to keep your co-worker calm and do not move the person unless he or she is in immediate danger.

Know who in your dairy operation has been trained in first aid. Have someone contact a first-aid-trained supervisor or co-worker whenever an injury occurs.  EL

Barbara Mulhern is a Wisconsin-based freelance writer who specializes in safety and health issues.