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Topics: Slips and Trips

Introduction:

Slips and trips are the most common cause of major injuries at work and make up over a third of all major injuries. Over 10,000 workers suffered serious injury because of a slip or trip last year. 95% of major slips result in broken bones. They can also be the initial cause for a range of other types of accident such as a fall from height. Everyone in the workplace has a part to play when it comes to preventing slips and trips, from the person who designed the building to the people working inside of it.

source - HSE (GB)
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Key Messages/Current Issues:

  • Causes

    What causes slips and trips?

    There are a number of factors that cause slips and trips:

    • Flooring
    • Environment
    • Footwear
    • Contamination and Obstacles
    • People
    • Cleaning

    One or more of these may play a part in any situation or accident.

  • Prevention

    What can I do to prevent slips and trips?

    • Have an effective management system in place.
    • Assess the risks and eliminate where possible.
    • Clear up spillages as soon as they occur.
    • Ensure everyone is properly trained.
    • Ensure the most appropriate footwear is chosen for the work environment.

  • Software

    Slips Assessment Tool


    The Slips Assessment Tool (SAT) is a freely downloadable computer software package that allows an operator to assess the slip potential of pedestrian walkway surfaces.

Key Legislation

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations Northern Ireland 1993

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000

Please note that these links are to the original legislation, visitors should verify for themselves whether legislation is in force or whether it has been amended or repealed by subsequent legislation.