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One-quarter of BNSF Railway Co.’s reportable and non-reportable injuries are caused by workers tripping and falling. During 2006’s first six months, the Class I recorded 153 of the injuries, which fall under a “slip, trip and fall” category.

To prevent the incidents — which some years account for one-third of total injuries — the railroad is rolling out a slip, trip and fall safety campaign. BNSF officials will conduct safety briefings and address slip, trip and fall topics. Managers also are encouraging supervisors to provide tips during daily safety briefings.

The railroad recently provided employees a list of slip, trip and fall myths. Workers typically assume slip, trip and fall injuries aren’t severe, are less of a risk to new employees and only occur outdoors, BNSF said. Other myths include the belief that most slip, trip and fall injuries are caused by bad walking surfaces, and risks associated with walking or getting on and off equipment aren’t as high compared with operating equipment or tools.