Why Same‑Level Falls Are a Concern for Older Workers
While a trip or fall may often be shrugged off as minor, it can have serious consequences, especially for older workers. In women aged over 50, a simple same-level fall can result in a distal radius fracture (broken wrist), one of the most common fractures worldwide, and the rate is rising in this demographic.
Monash University revealed that 21% of fall incidents were same-level falls, and women over 45 constituted 21% of all such events, despite female workers being underrepresented overall.
The Biology Behind the Risk: Sarcopenia and Comorbidity
Ageing leads to a natural decline in muscle mass and strength, a process known as sarcopenia. When coupled with chronic conditions or sedentary work, this vulnerability is amplified.
Dr Sid O’Toole, Occupational and Environmental Physician at Phoenix Occupational Medicine, explains:
“As people age, they lose muscle mass and strength—sarcopenia. Add sedentary roles or chronic conditions, and the risk multiplies.”
Prevention Strategies Employers Can Implement
1. Strength and Balance Training
Partner with allied health providers like Guardian Exercise Rehabilitation to implement targeted exercise programs that build muscle, balance, and endurance. Accredited Exercise Physiologist Matt Worland emphasises:
“Businesses benefit from initiatives that identify and empower employees to improve strength and fitness.”
2. Whole-Workforce Health Programs
Rather than singling out older workers, promote a health and wellbeing culture that includes strength, aerobic fitness, and diet.
3. Environmental Controls
Assess workplaces for trip hazards such as uneven flooring, loose carpets, poor lighting, and install handrails or non-slip surfaces where needed. Encourage suitable footwear and adequate rest breaks, especially for prolonged standing tasks.
4. Health Screening
Offer health checks for older workers. Phoenix Occupational Medicine can design a periodic health assessment relevant to your organisation and workforce, and Health Improvement Plans to support workers to address health issues.
5. Education and Awareness
Train staff on safe movement—lifting, climbing stairs, descending platforms—and raise awareness about the heightened fall risk for older colleagues.
Recovery and Return to Work: A Tailored Approach
Falls in older workers frequently result in fractures or extended recovery times. Structured return-to-work plans are essential:
- Conduct strength and function assessments
- Provide modified duties during recovery
- Monitor progress collaboratively
- Ensure ongoing support from Occupational and Environmental Physicians, physiotherapists, and exercise physiologists
Australian Trends
- AIHW data indicates same-level falls have decreased by 35% over five years, likely due to improved workplace safety.
- However, Monash findings suggest ageing workforce trends may reverse these gains, especially among older women.
Internal Links and Services
Enhance your workplace safety by exploring:
- Our Specialised Second Opinion Service, ideal for a second set of specialist eyes
- Strength & Balance Programs in collaboration with Guardian
- Structured Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Plans
- Expert Occupational and Environmental Physician advice on injury management and health surveillance
Ready to Support Your Senior Workforce?
Phoenix Occupational Medicine specialises in reducing fall risks among all employees, including older workers. Combining on-site risk assessments, health screening, and rehabilitation strategies, we help employers create safer, more inclusive workplaces.Contact us today to review your fall prevention approach and empower your ageing workforce.
