Limiting slips, trips and falls at work

The most common cause of injury in the workplace

Author: Dee Jones/31 August 2019/Categories: HEALTH & SAFETY, Creating safe working conditions, Safety when working at height , WORKPLACE ADVICE, A safe, clean environment

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An analysis of work injuries across all job types, shows that slips, trips and falls are the most common cause of physical harm. The degree of harm sustained depends on the hazard in place and the height at which it occurs. A simple stumble can result in anything from a minor mishap to a serious accident which may involve dangerous machinery, or even a person falling from height to death. Luckily in the UK we have governing bodies who offer sound advice regarding risk assessing workplaces and best practises regarding the health and safety of employees. There is a simple 3 point task that when carried out correctly, can greatly reduce accidents and injuries at work:

1. Risk assessment
Usdaw (Union of shop, distributive and allied workers) offer advice on how to identify hot spots. This will help to remedy any problems and their causes, creating a safer working space.

Free risk mapping technique

2. Prevention
Once all potential health hazards have been identified, measures to reduce risk can be put in place. You must make sure that these measures adhere to the law. The HSE offers much advice in all areas to help you comply:
Slips and trips
Working at height
Cleaning

3. Report all injuries
Since 2013 it is the law that you must report injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences - RIDDOR. By keeping a record of all injuries, it can assist in the ongoing assessment of the workplace, which can further help to maintain a safer working environment.

Products that are designed to help with the prevention of slips, trips and falls

Cover walkways and landings with Slipgrip flat sheet to help prevent slips and trips. Ideal for walkways, ramps, gangways, factory floors etc.
Oil, grease and chemical resistant recycled PVC mats with etched anti-slip surface provide safer standing and walkway areas for employees
Robust tubular barriers are the ideal solution to protecting machinery, pedestrian walkways, shelving areas or for defining particular areas in warehouses and factories.
Spill kits provide the best means to help clear up accidental spills in the workplace - all in one kit and easily moved around your premises as needs be. There are various types of products for all types of spills.
Working at height from a platform can remove the risk of ladder failure. Access towers allow the operator to safely move around within the platform’s safety barriers.
Gritting outdoor areas during inclement weather is the best way to offer protection from slips and falls.