Small steps prevent big falls - inspection programme to prevent slips, trips and falls in haulage and logistics sector
Date published:
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is urging employers in the haulage and logistics sector to take action to help prevent slips, trips and falls within their workforce.
Slips, trips and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injury, often resulting in serious harm such as fractures, sprains and long-term absence.
Workers operating in busy environments, including warehouses, yards and delivery routes, can be particularly at risk due to uneven surfaces, spillages, poor housekeeping or inadequate lighting.
The call comes at the launch of an HSENI proactive, on-site inspection programme which begins this month (July 2026).
HSENI Principal Inspector Kellie McNamara said:
“The movement of almost all goods in Northern Ireland involves road transport”.
“We are urging employers in the haulage and logistics sector to work with us to reduce work-related injuries caused by slips, trips and falls”.
“Taking simple steps such as maintaining good housekeeping, ensuring safe walking surfaces and identifying hazards early can prevent serious and potentially life-changing injuries.”
Until the end of March 2027, HSENI inspectors will specifically look at the controls that employers have in place to manage risks associated with slips, trips and falls. Inspectors will also provide information and advice to employers on how these risks can be reduced.
Incidents involving slips, trips and falls often occur due to avoidable hazards such as wet or contaminated floors, trailing cables, damaged flooring or poorly maintained access routes. Many of these incidents can be prevented through effective risk assessments and practical control measures.
Employers have a legal duty to assess and then eliminate or reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls to as low a level as is reasonably practicable.
Where significant risks are found, HSENI Inspectors may take enforcement action to achieve compliance with health and safety legislation.
Practical guidance on preventing slips, trips and falls can be found at:
Notes to editors :
- The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body, sponsored by the Department for the Economy (DfE), and is the lead body responsible for the promotion and enforcement of health and safety at work standards in Northern Ireland: www.hseni.gov.uk.
- For media enquiries, please contact: HSENI Press Office on 028 9024 3249 or by email: media@hseni.gov.uk. For out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer on 028 9037 8110.