Preventing Slips & Trips at Work
Did you know? Slips and trips are the most common cause of injury at work.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to take the appropriate steps to ensure the health and safety of all employees.
On average, slips and trips cause 40 per cent of all reported major injuries and can also lead to other types of serious accidents, for example falls from height.
A risk assessment is needed and should include which risks within the workplace may lead to slips, trips, and accidents and which control measures will be effective enough to prevent accidents. It’s helpful to ask your employees to highlight potential hazards, as they may have spotted something you’ve missed.
It’s useful to have a good health and safety management system, which consists of practical steps to easily prevent slip and trip risks.
Some points to consider include:
- Use Entrance matting
- Fix any leaks
- Ensure equipment is maintained
- Ensure tasks are designed to minimise spillages
- Map out pedestrian and vehicle routes
- Ensure the correct cleaning products are used dependant on the type of floor being cleaned
- Ensure floors are left dry or sectioned off with appropriate signage/equipment until dry
- Check for damaged or worn flooring to reduce potential hazards
- Ensure lighting is sufficient and slopes or steps are clearly marked
- Keep work areas clear from obstruction
- Ensure the correct footwear is worn dependant on the floor type
What can your employees do to prevent slips and trips?
- Notify the employer of any accidents or near misses and notify the employer of any damages, worn floors or other potential hazards.
- Clear up any spillages or notify the appropriate person
- Keep work areas clean and tidy
- Wear any PPE necessary for the task at hand
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Please note that legislation and regulation information may not apply to your area and/or may have since been updated. Please check regulations and legislation with your local authority. You should also seek independent advice about any legal matter.
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