Slips, trips, and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries across the Postal Service™, impacting all employees. Whether it is a wet floor, uneven surface, cluttered walkway, or poorly lit area, these hazards can cause serious injuries and disrupt daily operations.
Recognizing and addressing potential hazards early not only helps prevent accidents but also supports a safer and more efficient workplace for everyone. Safety begins with awareness, taking a few extra seconds to identify and report hazards can make a lasting difference.
Employees must be diligent about examining their path and work area for hazards. Report hazards to your supervisor using PS Form 1767, Report of Hazard, Unsafe Condition, or Practice. Supervisors can be proactive in preventing slips, trips, and falls by documenting unsafe practices and conditions, while conducting employee observations and removing reported hazards.
The following tips can help prevent these incidents:
n Wear proper footwear. Choose high-traction, slip-resistant footwear.
n Stay away from wet leaves, slippery surfaces, or icy areas, whenever possible. Shorten your steps and shuffle your feet when near slippery surfaces.
n Be alert. On the workroom floor or out on the route, things change quickly. Always remain focused, alert, and ready to react to the conditions in front of you.
n Where available, use handrails or other stable supports. Holding on to something keeps you steady when ascending and descending stairs.
n When entering and exiting vehicles, keep one hand on the vehicle or grab bar, so that you can catch yourself if you start to slip.
n Don’t carry a load you can’t see over.
Housekeeping is also important for preventing slips, trips, and falls:
n Keep walkways, aisles, and stairs free of tools, materials, and other hazards.
n Store cords, power cables, and air hoses out of walkways.
n Keep the floor clear of trash and plastic straps.
n Block off and mark floors, or areas that are being cleaned or repaired.
n Promptly clean leaks or spills on floors, stairs, entryways, and loading docks.
Safety is a shared commitment. When each employee takes responsibility for identifying and abating hazards, the entire USPS® team benefits. Every reported hazard and every careful step contribute to a culture where safety is valued and practice daily.
— Occupational Safety and Health,
Human Resources, 12-11-25
