Slips and trips are a big cause of accidents, both minor and major, resulting in not only bruised bodies and bruised egos but long lasting injuries - some with permanent outcomes. Every year over 11,000 people seriously injure themselves from a slip or trip resulting in sprains, breaks and fractures. This counts for around 38% of all major injuries.
All workplaces, from offices to construction sites and shops to car parks are not 100% safe and risk free. So we’ve posted a list of useful tips to prevent accidents for you, your staff and your customers.
Flooring
Floors are a big factor when it comes to the risk of slipping and in most cases non-slip surfaces can be a great benefit. Non-slip surfaces are best fitted during construction; however, this isn’t always possible. Restorations and upgrades are also a great time to put them into place.
Contamination
Spills and leaks of liquids are a big hazard, so when moving containers check that nothing is damaged, wipe up any spills and dispose of all packaging correctly. If a leak is spotted call the appropriate person to come and fix it as soon as possible.
Obstacles
Work tools, equipment and similar items should be stored out of the way of walkways as they can increase the chance of trips in the workplace. Housekeeping should be kept to a maximum standard to ensure there aren’t any other items obstructing paths.
Footwear
Any employees that are at risk of slipping should have the correct PPE, especially standard safety shoes. Those who work in the likes of kitchens, cold stores or outside are especially at risk. This precaution cannot always be controlled with the likes of customers in a shop, so other safety measures should also be in place.
People
Certain actions in the workplace can result in slips and trips - running or not looking where you are going can increase the chance of a fall. Put rules in place for safe behaviour in the workplace, train people and keep track that they are being conducted correctly to prevent dangers.
Environment
Lighting levels, ice on exterior surfaces and rain water that is brought in on people’s shoes can be a factor of a trip or slip. Ensure that floors are mopped and wet floor signs are put out, light bulbs are changed as they are running out and exterior surfaces are cleaned to prevent injuries from happening.
If you or your employees require any form of health and safety training, please browse our list of relevant courses. Or if you aren’t sure what your company needs, please call us on 01985 878652. Don’t forget we can deliver courses at your premises!