Pudotusriskit

Pudotusriskit refers to the set of hazards that can cause a person to fall or slip, leading to injury. The term, Finnish for “fall risks,” is used in occupational safety to describe both falls from height and incidents at ground level caused by slipping, tripping, or loss of balance. It encompasses environmental conditions, work tasks, and human factors that raise the likelihood of a fall.

Etymology shows pudotus meaning fall or drop and riski meaning risk, reflecting the focus on potential loss of balance and impact. In practice, pudotusriskit are considered in risk assessments, workplace design, and safety training to reduce exposure and consequences.

Assessment and measurement involve identifying hazards through inspections, incident and near-miss reports, and task analyses. Risks are evaluated by considering the probability of a fall and the potential severity of injury, often using a risk matrix. Data collected over time helps monitor trends and prioritize corrective actions.

Mitigation follows the hierarchy of controls. Engineering measures include guardrails, toeboards, anchor points for fall-arrest systems, anti-slip flooring, and improved lighting. Administrative controls cover training, safe work procedures, supervision, and scheduling that reduces exposure to hazards. Housekeeping and maintenance play a key role in eliminating slip and trip risks, and personal protective equipment such as non-slip footwear and harnesses may be used where appropriate.

Sectors frequently addressing pudotusriskit include construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and public facilities. Common examples involve wet or uneven floors, cluttered workspaces, unprotected edges, and improper use of stairs or ladders.

Regulatory practice varies by jurisdiction but typically requires hazard identification, risk assessment, and implementation of preventive measures. Organizations often implement formal safety programs and audits to continuously reduce fall-related injuries.