No one wants to have an accident or get hurt when they’re in the workplace, but sadly accidents happen every day of the week. For some, the repercussions can be life-changing.
So, to help you keep your workplace a safer place to be, we’ve put together our ten top tips for preventing slips, trips, and falls.
1. Keep your workplace clean and tidy.
Developing a culture of cleanliness in your workplace will go a long way to preventing slips, trips, and falls. A tidy workplace is a safe workplace.
Proper housekeeping has many benefits, but it does take some effort on your part. To create an effective program for yourself or employees in the workplace, there are three simple steps:
Plan ahead – know what needs to be done, who will do it, and how often each task should occur during regular work hours (i.e., weekly).
Assign responsibilities- if necessary, assign specific people/group(s)as they clean up after themselves rather than taking personal responsibility individually. This makes them more accountable when others aren’t around unless specifically tasked otherwise by management.
Implement procedures – Ensure that everyone continues to make daily housekeeping part of their routine.
2. Make sure floor surfaces are in good condition and free of trip hazards.
If you notice any problems, immediately report them to your supervisor or health and safety representative.
3. Wear appropriate footwear for the work you are doing.
Wearing the proper footwear can help prevent slips, trips, and falls. Make sure you wear shoes that have good grip and support and that are appropriate for the work you are doing.
4. Take care when carrying objects.
Carrying objects can increase your risk of slipping, tripping, or falling. Where possible, use trolleys or other equipment to help you move things safely. If you have to carry something, ensure you can see where you are going and take extra care.
5. Be aware of potential hazards.
Keep an eye out for potential hazards in your workplace, such as wet floors, loose cables, or cluttered walkways. If you see something that could pose a risk, report it to your supervisor or health and safety representative.
6. Be careful when using ladders and step-stools.
Ladders and step-stools can help reach high places, but they can also be dangerous if misused. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take care when using them.
7. Take your time.
Rushing can increase your risk of slipping, tripping, or falling. If you need to hurry, walk carefully and take extra care.
8. Don’t take shortcuts.
Taking shortcuts is often tempting, but it can also be dangerous. Walking through an area that is not intended for foot traffic can increase your risk of slipping, tripping, or falling.
9. Ask for help if you need it.
If you are unsure about how to do something safely, or if you feel uncomfortable doing something, ask for help from your supervisor or a more experienced colleague.
10. Report any accidents or near-misses.
If you have an accident or a near-miss, report it to your supervisor or health and safety representative to take the necessary corrective action.
What to Do if You Have Slip, Trip of Fall at Work
If you have a slip, trip, or fall at work, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Many injuries from slips, trips, and falls are not immediately apparent and may worsen over time.
In addition, you should report the incident to your supervisor as soon as possible so that any hazards can be corrected and prevented in the future. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may also want to consult with an experienced personal accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
According to claimsaction.co.uk, it’s also important to let your trade union representative know if you have one, and ensure that the details of the incident are entered into the company’s accident book.
Whose Responsibility is it to prevent accidents at Work?
Under UK health and safety law, both employers and employees have a responsibility to take steps to prevent accidents at work.
Employers are required to provide a safe workplace and ensure that employees have the training and equipment they need to do their job safely.
On the other hand, employees must follow company safety procedures and take care when working.
Training to Prevent Accidents in the Workplace
Employers should provide employees with regular safety training to prevent accidents in the workplace. This training should cover topics such as identifying potential hazards, reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls, and what to do if an accident occurs.
In addition, employees should be given specific instructions on any safety equipment they are required to use, such as fall arrest systems or ladders.
Manual handling training is also important for employees who are required to lift or move objects around the workplace. This training should cover topics such as how to lift and carry objects safely and how to use mechanized lifting equipment.