Write Up:

Safety is MoDOT’s number one priority. Tracking this measure ensures all employees arrive at work safely, perform their jobs safely, and return home safely. Preparations necessary to accomplish these goals include preplanning jobs, reviewing Risk Based Assessments, conducting morning safety briefings, and performing active stretching before beginning the workday. This measure focuses on improving three high-risk areas: backing a motorized vehicle, employee slips, trips, and falls, and employee sprains and strains.

MoDOT had 14 backing incidents during the first quarter of 2026, resulting in a 51% decrease compared to the first quarter of 2025. Vehicle backing incidents can potentially lead to property damage and employee injury or death. Improvement strategies include proper planning, parking vehicles to avoid future backing, using an employee spotter, and conducting a thorough circle check of the area before entering the vehicle. Incorporating Geotab devices into all snow vehicles to assist with data collection is also an improvement strategy.

There were 20 incidents of slips, trips, and falls reported through the first quarter of 2026, a 26% decrease compared to the same period in 2025. Improvement strategies include being aware of surroundings, keeping work areas organized, identifying unforeseen job hazards, and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.

Through the first quarter of 2026, there were 40 reported incidents of employee sprains and strains, an 8% increase compared to the same period in 2025. MoDOT now utilizes a new, more accurate reporting system to collect and track this data. The updated system also incorporates improvement strategies introduced through the statewide Stretch and Flex program. These strategies include asking for assistance when lifting heavy objects and applying proper lifting techniques taught during employee Gear Up training.

At MoDOT, safety is everyone’s responsibility. It is imperative that employees look out for themselves and for each other. Employees are encouraged to routinely submit Observations, Good Catches, and Near Misses to help everyone better understand risks and identify where additional effort is needed.

Purpose of the Measure:

This measure tracks the department's most frequent incident types and highlights areas to focus on for improvement.

Measurement and Data Collection:

Data is collected through MoDOT Management System BI- Report for each district and Central Office for the prior four years on the number of backing incidents; slips, trips and falls; and strains and pulls. These are the three most common types of injuries at MoDOT.