How to Prevent Slips, Trips and Falls at Work
Slips, trips and falls are the most common form of general workplace injuries.
According to the HSE “On average, they cause 40 per cent of all reported major injuries and can also lead to other types of serious accidents, for example falls from height.” Slips, trips and falls are also said to be the most common causes of employee compensation claims - so it definitely pays to try to prevent these from occurring.
How can you Reduce Slips, Trips and Falls at Work?
We have put together a handy guide of ways you can proactively manage the workplace environment to lower the risk of injuries.
1. Ensure floors aren’t contaminated
It is very rare for someone to slip on a dry, clean floor. Injuries usually occur when the floor is contaminated with liquids for example water or oil. To prevent this from happening its best to invest in matting, ensure equipment is well maintained and also encourage a “see it, sort it” policy so hazards can be controlled instantly.
2. Stairways
Stairways are a common location for falls to occur within the workplace. It’s essential that they are kept clear of objects, they are well lit with the correct reflective tape and have suitable and sturdy handrails.
3. Correct signage
Signage should be clear and well placed in order to make employees aware of potential hazards within the workspace. Signs to indicate uneven ground or a step ensures that hazardous areas are highlighted to increase awareness.
4. Provide step stools and ladders
Providing equipment in order for employees to carry out tasks safely at heights, reduces the chance of falling off unsafe equipment i.e. chairs, desks and tables.
5. Use the correct cleaning methods
Frequent and effective cleaning is an important way of managing slips and trips however not conducting the cleaning with the correct methods and equipment can impose further risks and hazards. It’s essential that floors are left dry or have the correct signage present before allowing employees to walk within the space. Finally, make certain the correct use of detergent and concentration is used to clean surfaces this will ensure that floors are cleaned to their full potential.
What Slips, Trips and Falls Training does Skills Training Centre Provide?
At Skills Training Centre we offer a wide range of training courses that can assist businesses with the prevention and management of injuries from slips, trips and falls. Firstly, our Health and Safety and Risk Assessment training courses will provide staff with basic practical knowledge and skills in order to understand fundamental hazards within the workplace and be able to put in preventive measures.
Skills Training Centre also provides a Working at Heights training programme , which is designed for operatives, supervisors and managers, covering awareness and risk assessments for workplaces that primarily work at heights and also the correct use and implementation of safety equipment. The Working at Heights Regulations 5 and 6(5)(b), state that you must ensure that everyone involved in the work is competent (or, if being trained, is supervised by a competent person). This includes involvement in organisation, planning, supervision, and the supply and maintenance of equipment.
Finally we have two variations of a Slips, Trips and Falls programme on our e-Learning page which can be purchased directly through our website.
We don’t believe in delivering courses that just tick boxes, we provide training that allows our attendees to learn new skills, improve existing skills and retain industry based knowledge.
The courses we provide are designed to be relevant and cost effective and are delivered to high standards. Our instructors are professional and experienced in their respective fields and are highly skilled at taking into account the needs of individuals with different skills, abilities and experience.
If you wish to gain further insight into our Health and Safety training courses and what Skills Training Centre can provide for you, please get in touch.
