In 2025, we will begin examining common hazards more thoroughly, considering what factors to take into account and what control measures we can reasonably implement. Regardless of the industry, common hazards are present across all sectors and work environments. Our initial in-depth analysis will concentrate on slips, trips, and falls.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slips, trips and falls (STFs) are the most common cause of non-fatal injuries to employees, accounting for 31% of all reported cases of injuries in 2023/24, slips and trips remain the single most common cause of major injury in the retail sector.
People tend not to place too much importance on slip, trip and fall incidents as they are seen as insignificant or “a part of life”, the reality is that some injuries will be life-changing or even fatal, there are many instances in the news where the immediate cause of an incident might be a push or a punch but when the person falls, they strike their head on a hard surface with catastrophic results.
Common injuries associated with slips, trips and falls can include:
Sprains and strains, especially affecting ankles, wrists or the back.
Broken bones, particularly wrists, arms (generally when trying to break a fall) or hips. The wrist of broken bones increases in older employees and customers etc.
Head injuries including cuts, lacerations, concussion and in severe cases, brain injuries.
Bruises and lacerations are also very common and can be painful and disruptive.
Common slip causation includes:
Contamination of the floor area with substances from a range of sources including transferal from footwear, cleaning activity, leaks and spills
Cleaning is a pathway to deal with contamination that would otherwise lead to slip accidents, but can itself introduce slip hazards such as wet floors.
Footwear that is inappropriate and not slip-resistant.
Flooring that is not slip-resistant for the context, especially under changing conditions i.e. dry/wet/contaminated.
Environmental conditions like rainwater, condensation, frost and ice can all create slippery surfaces.
People's behaviour within the work environment can lead to slips and trips when they are rushing, carrying large objects that block their view, or walking while distracted, such as using a mobile phone.
Slips are not just about spilt liquids either, many slips occur through solid flowing objects including dusts, sand, gravels, mud and cereals.
Now you have a better understanding of how serious, slips, trips and falls can be, and what can be done to reduce the likelihood of them occurring in the first place.
Encourage people to report near misses, this will assist in developing a strategy to combat areas of repeated concern.
Discuss issues with cleaning personnel, if external contractors undertake cleaning, ensure they are included.
Look at the type of fixed and loose floor coverings, and ensure they are in good condition, especially on stairs.
Give clear guidance on footwear, generally, this would require a clear policy i.e., stout, enclosed shoes.
Check outside areas are free of leaves, wet grass, moss and mud.
Maintain equipment at risk of leakages i.e., air conditioning units.
Check cable routes, where necessary, position cables out of traffic routes or use cable covers.
Get everyone to practice good housekeeping in all areas, offices are just as hazardous as other work environments.
Provide regular safety training on the importance of slips, trips and fall hazards, with signs and posters used as a visual reminder.
Ensuring specialised equipment such as step stools or ladders and wet warning mats near entrances to prevent any falls preventions.
In conclusion, slips, trips, and falls are often underestimated hazards that can result in severe and life-changing consequences. While these incidents are sometimes seen as trivial, the statistics and examples provided by the HSE make it clear that they deserve significant attention across all industries. By understanding the common causes and taking proactive steps—such as improving housekeeping, ensuring appropriate footwear, maintaining flooring, and encouraging the reporting of near misses—we can reduce the likelihood of such incidents occurring. Prioritising the mitigation of these hazards will not only protect employees and customers but also foster a safer and more productive working environment.
Let's work together to make 2025 a year of proactive safety improvements. Please click the link below to get more information.
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