Watch the below video to recognize the measures that should be taken to help prevent slips and trips then study the text in this page and the following
pages and refer to sources of information recommended in the module then assess your understanding by solving the end of module quiz
Slips and trips are common causes of injury at work. They can also lead to other types of serious accidents, for example falls from height.
1.1 Practical steps to prevent slips and trips accidents:
There are many simple ways to control slips and trips risks and prevent accidents in the workplace. These ways include for example:
Stoping floors becoming contaminated by:
Using entrance matting.
Fixing leaks from machinery or buildings.
Making sure plant and equipment are maintained.
Designing tasks to minimise spillages.
Planning pedestrian and vehicle routes to avoid contaminated areas.
Using the right cleaning methods by:
Making sure that cleaning methods are effective for the type of floors.
Avoiding the introduction of more slip or trip risks while cleaning is being done.
Leaving smooth floors dry after cleaning or excluding pedestrians until the floor is dry.
Removing spillages promptly.
Having effective arrangements for both routine cleaning and dealing with spills.
Using the appropriate detergent mixed at the correct concentration.
Considering the flooring and work environment by:
Checking for loose, damaged and worn flooring and replacing them as needed.
Making sure that floors likely to get wet or have spillages on them are of a type that does not become unduly slippery.
Making sure lighting is sufficient and that slopes or steps are clearly visible.
Keeping walkways and work areas clear of obstructions.
Getting the right footwear:
Where floors cannot be kept clean and dry, slip-resistant footwear can help prevent slip accidents.
Trial footwear first to make sure it is suitable for the environment and for those who will be wearing it, ie comfort and fit.
If footwear is supplied as personal protective equipment (PPE), it must be supplied free of charge to employees.
Thinking about people and organisational factors by:
Considering how work is organised and managed, eg to avoid rushing, overcrowding, trailing cables.
Making sure employees are involved in the decisions that affect them, eg choice of PPE footwear or a change in cleaning methods.