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On average 40% of all work related accidents reported to Gedling Borough Council are due to slipping, tripping or falling incidents and it has been estimated that all such similar incidents nationally cost the country £512 million a year.
During 2005-2006 officers at Gedling Borough Council took part in a sucessful national health and safety initiative to improve the levels of knowledge and workplace compliance concerning slips and trips. However we still want to help businesses to protect employees and customers from injury. Just take a few minutes to consider the following,
You can use the check list as a guide. (65 KB).
If you are a new small business just setting up you may find this link useful
The HSE has launched a new web site as part of the 'Watch your Step' campaign. You can view the site from the following link www.hse.gov.uk/watchyourstep.
The slip resistance of your existing floors can be improved by strips of slip-resistant material stuck onto the floor. These should be carefully placed and well maintained.
Unexpected changes in level, such as slopes and steps, can be marked with high-visibility tape or paint. Handrails can also be of benefit.
Try to catch these before they reach the floor ideally prevent the leak in the first place. Walk in fridges and freezers can pose a problem when condensing water falls to the floor.
Increase the wattage on light bulbs in dark areas where slipping or tripping hazards are possible. Check fluorescent tube diffusers: these may need cleaning or replacing.
Step ladders and items that are used fairly regularly can often provide a formidable hazard.
Maybe the ladder be secured to the wall in someway either on a suitable bracket or with a restraining strap.
You can download more information on risk assessments and the law here.
Follow the link below to read about actual incidents, how they were caused and the final outcome.
www.hse.gov.uk/slips/experience.htm
There are currently no published standards for the slip-resistance of footwear. You should challenge suppliers to provide the right footwear for your particular needs. Trial a few makes in the workplace and involve the workforce in choosing the best type. The following link www.safetydirectory.com/safety_products/safety_footwear.htm provides information on safety footwear suppliers.
In cases where it is not reasonably practicable to totally prevent floor contamination the floor/ shoe combination needs to be suitable to prevent slipping. Most smooth floors are slip-resistant when clean and dry. Surface contamination will make a significant difference. The following five links, without being exhaustive provide examples of flooring solutions:
The Workplace Regulations require that floors should be kept clear of contamination as far as is reasonably practicable. This can often be achieved fairly simply and cheaply.
The Regulations also state that floors and traffic routes - which include gangways should be free from holes, level and should be clear of any obstructions or articles that may cause a person to trip. This can easily be achieved by way of good housekeeping and working systems.
If temporary obstructions are unavoidable, e.g. for loading and unloading, a system of preventing access or of warning people should be brought into play. Account should be taken of contractors and visitors.
It is a legal requirement for employers to carry out risk assessments where potential slipping and tripping hazards have been identified.
You can download 'a helpful HSE leaflet, "Workplace health, safety and welfare: a short guide for managers"reference INDG244 (Pdf leaflet size 172 KB) which will also be worthwhile printing off for your employees.Versions in Punjabi (size 146 KB) and Chinese (size 356 KB) are also available.
In preventing slips and trips a small investment can give an immediate reduction in the risk.
1.Allocate responsibilities - employees need to be sure who is responsible for cleaning up spillages, how it should be done and when.
2.Involve the workforce – ask employees what they consider to be the main causes of slips and trips. Involve them in preparing risk assessments.
3.Guard against complacency - actively monitor progress as you move around the workplace.
The TUC have undertaken a survey on slips trips and falls: 'Falling down on the job', for further details follow this link http://www.tuc.org.uk/h_and_s/tuc-6076-f0.cfm
Telephone
0115 9013838
Fax
0115 9013843
Email
foodsafety@gedling.gov.uk
Our postal address
Food/Health and Safety Section
Planning and Environment Department
Civic Centre
Arnot Hill Park
Arnold
Notts
NG5 6LU
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