Slips Trips and Falls

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers are required to ensure the health and safety of all employees and anyone affected by their work.  Employers need to go so far as is reasonably practicable in terms of time, money and trouble.  This includes taking steps to protect against slips, trips, and falls and involves identifying potential trip hazards.

Employees also have a duties under the act and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

Employees must take reasonable care of themselves and others who may be affected by their actions, and comply with the employer’s arrangements for managing health and safety.

Employees and anyone under another persons control must:

• Inform the employer of any work situation they consider dangerous, or of any shortcoming in their protection arrangements for health and safety
• Use all work items provided by the employer correctly, in accordance with your training and instructions received to use them safely

Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 employers are required to assess risks such as slips, trips and falls, and take necessary preventative action.

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require floors to be suitable, in good condition and free from obstruction.  Main trip hazards are:

• Uneven floor surfaces
• Unsuitable floor coverings
• Wet floors
• Changes in levels
• Trailing cables
• Poor Lighting
• Poor housekeeping

How can employees help to prevent slips and trips in the workplace?

• Report near misses and accidents promptly
• If you see a risk, try to sort it and report it
• Help keep floors clean and dry
• Clean up and spillages straight away
• Ask employer to mark slopes and changes of levels
• Report to your employer if there is inadequate lighting
• Follow any safety advice

Risk assessments are an imperative tool for measuring risk and for deciding on preventative measures against trip hazards.  We have advisors available to point you in the right direction for staying compliant with legislation surrounding slips, trips and falls.  Call our team on 0330 400 5490