Guides & Toolkits

4 100-BZM-01-IGDO ©2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA 3. Slips, Trips, and Falls Hazards Prevention Tips Slips, trips, and falls from same level make up 70% of WSIB fall injury claims. Falls from same level can lead to disabling, critical, and even fatal injuries. Most common slip, trip, fall hazards at waterfronts include: • Uneven ground / sand such as sand holes and debris • Slippery surfaces such as wet boardwalks and wet / slimy rocks • Tripping over objects such as toys and rescue equipment • Sand on floors in lifeguard buildings • Poor footwear Maintenance • Inspect waterfront and beach areas daily for holes, debris, and other hazards. • Provide staff with rakes and shovels to address any observed holes. • Inspect boardwalks regularly for loose boards, raised nails / screws, cleanliness, algae buildup, animal waste, stability of railings, damage to high visibility markings. • Maintain boardwalks and wooden surfaces, paying close attention to removal of slippery algae. Clean regularly to remove algae, animal waste, and debris. • For wooden docks, remove algae using specialized cleaner and scrubbing with a stiff-bristled brush. • Consider installing slip-resistant materials on boardwalks and docks. • Ensure facilities are designed to facilitate water drainage. Activities and Work Practices • Where possible, do not allow waterfront users to dig large / deep holes, which are difficult to fill and may result in subsidence of the sand. Housekeeping • Establish designated storage locations for rescue equipment out of the path from the guard chair. • Sweep lifeguard buildings regularly, at least several times a day, to remove tracked-in sand. Footwear • Develop policies requiring staff to wear closed-toe, closed-heel footwear. For staff entering the water, such as aquatics staff, consider requiring the use of water shoes with rubber soles. 4. Falls From Heights Hazards Prevention Tips Falls from heights in waterfront work often involves lifeguard chairs or lifeguard platforms / stations. Main causes of falls from heights in waterfront operations include: • Falling off the guard chair • Falling while getting on or the off the guard chair Equipment • Bolt down or secure chairs with cement blocks / sandbags to prevent tipping. • Choose chairs where access can be locked after hours. • Install guardrails that meet the Ontario Building Code on larger lifeguard platforms. Policies and Safe Work Practices • Develop written procedures for the use of lifeguard chairs, including getting on and off. • Train staff to always use handrails when climbing or descending the lifeguard chair, maintaining 3 points of contact.

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