Publish date: 26 October 2021
This European Health and Safety week we are discussing slips, trips and falls
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that “Slips trips and falls are the most common cause of injury at work, on average they cause over a third of all major injuries”. They also account for half of all injuries reported by members of the public in workplaces with public access, such as hospitals.
All incidents of slips trips or falls must be reported on Datix or a Ulysses so the Health and Safety Team. They can provide support and advice to the staff member or manager and review the incident to see if it meets the reporting criteria to the HSE under Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR).
Significant consequences occur following slips, trips and falls every year so as we enter autumn, we need to be aware of the risks within our working environments. Cold, wet, and icy conditions contribute largely to slips trips and falls incidents from wet leaves on the ground, frosty pathways, and car parks.
It’s everyone’s responsibility to report any wet or icy conditions they witness which have not been attended to appropriately (i.e., a wet water patch not mopped up, no warning sign displayed or ungritted pathway or car park).
Staff should consider whether their footwear is appropriate to their working environment. It’s important to always be aware of where you are walking and look for warning signs for a wet floor or an uneven surface.