Every time you step into a grocery store, you might not think about the potential hazards around you. You are there to shop for your daily necessities, after all. But be careful, because grocery stores can present unexpected risks, and you may find yourself involved in a slip-and-fall accident. In fact, the CDC reported that as many as one million Americans get hurt in a slip and fall injury every year, and many of those accidents happen in grocery stores.
Certain hazards can catch even the most cautious shoppers off guard. To avoid these accidents, it is important to be aware of the common areas where they often occur.
Produce section
The produce section is a common area for slips and falls in a grocery store. Overripe fruits and vegetables often fall from their displays, creating a slipping hazard. Water sprayed on the produce can also accumulate on the floor, making it slippery.
Refrigerated and frozen food aisles
Refrigerated and frozen food aisles present another risk. Leaks from refrigerator units can create puddles on the floor. These puddles are often hard to see, especially if the store lighting is dim. In addition, condensation can form and fall from the doors of freezers, creating a similar hazard.
Checkout lanes
Checkout lanes can become slippery due to spilled drinks and food items. It can take time for staff to clean up these messes, especially during busy periods.
Entrances and exits
The store’s entrances and exits can become dangerous during rainy or snowy weather. Rainwater and snow brought in on customers’ shoes can make floors slippery. Some stores place mats near the entrances to absorb the water, but these mats can become saturated and lose their effectiveness.
It is important to always be careful while you are in a grocery store. Even though grocery stores must maintain a safe environment for shoppers, accidents can happen. By being aware of these common areas for slip-and-fall incidents, you can better protect yourself and avoid potential injuries. Stay vigilant, watch your step and report any hazards you notice to store staff to ensure not only your safety but the safety of others as well.