Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
Symbol of the Government of Canada
Health and Safety: Teaching Tools
A C T I V I T I E S
? ACTIVITY 2 ?

Slips, Trips and Falls
Case Study

You notice that Sandy has left the lowest drawer in the filing cabinet open. Your immediate reaction is to leave the drawer open because this is the fifth time that you have closed the drawer for her this semester.

  1. Was this the best action you could have taken?
    Answer - No.
    Why? You ignored a hazard. Someone might get injured.
  2. What should have been done?
    Answer - close the drawer.
    Why? You also bear some responsibility by not closing the drawer in case someone is injured.
  3. What should be done to prevent a recurrence?
    Answer - Remind Sandy that someone might trip on the open drawer.
      Establish and reinforce classroom safety rules.
    Why? Eliminating the hazard is the best prevention.