One surprise positive from the pandemic makes a return at Sandia

STEP BY STEP — The average person walks 4,000 to 18,000 steps per day. Over a year, that totals 1 million to 4.5 million steps each year at work per employee. This equates to trillions of steps, “near misses,” for Sandians. (Photo by Craig Fritz) — **STEP BY STEP** — The average person walks 4,000 to 18,000 steps per day. Over a year, that totals 1 million to 4.5 million steps each year at work per employee. This equates to trillions of steps, “near misses,” for Sandians. (Photo by Craig Fritz)

STAY, DON’T STRAY — The “Stay On. Stay Well.” sign. (Photo by Lance Perry) — **STAY, DON’T STRAY** — The “Stay On. Stay Well.” sign. (Photo by Lance Perry)

Five years ago, during the pandemic, slips, trips and falls at Sandia reached an all-time low; not a surprise because most of the workforce was working from home. What is a surprise is that five years later, with much of the workforce back on-site, those numbers have reached a similar low. In November 2025, there were a total of two slip, trip, and fall incidents — the lowest on record since the pandemic and the most recent low-point of an encouraging trend.

About 85% of walking injuries are linked to poor decisions. Many employees choose to stray from designated paths, opting instead to traverse rock beds, cut corners or walk in areas where the risk of injury is considerably higher. These decisions can lead to a range of injuries, from minor bruises and scrapes to more severe cases involving broken bones and damaged teeth.

In response, Sandia’s Director and Chief of Safety David Stuhan greenlit the “Stay On. Stay Well.” Walking is Working program in early 2025. This campaign to encourage the workforce to stay on the beaten path is making positive strides.

HELPFUL REMINDERS — Cards have been handed out to 3,000 employees, so far. (Photo by Lance Perry) — **HELPFUL REMINDERS** — Cards have been handed out to 3,000 employees, so far. (Photo by Lance Perry)

In the six months leading up to the program’s launch, Sandia averaged 9.5 walking injuries per month. However, in the six months following the initiation of the program, incidents dropped to an average of 6.33 injuries per month, resulting in a 35% reduction in walking injuries. This achievement is a testament to the diligence and active participation of employees in prioritizing safety while walking on campus.

Of course, the ultimate goal is zero walking injuries, which can only be accomplished one step at a time through the continued practice of safe walking habits. This includes adhering to dedicated walkways, avoiding distracted walking, using crosswalks when crossing streets and steering clear of areas and debris that elevate the risks of slips, trips and falls.

For questions regarding the “Stay On. Stay Well.” Walking is Working program or to schedule a presentation on walking injuries during an upcoming team meeting, staff can reach out to Lance Perry.

Sandia Lab News