Slips, Trips and Falls

Statistics for Local Authority enforced premises show that slips, trips and falls (on the same level) accounted for 42% of major injuries and 23% of over 3 day injuries to employees, which were reportable under RIDDOR.

Slip injuries in food/drink premises occur at about four times the average and 90% are from spillages or wet on floors.

There is also a high incidence of members of the public slipping or tripping over, particularly in retail premises. If an elderly person has a fall it can result in their death or a very serious injury such as a hip fracture.

In retail shops storing goods in aisles and overstocking which results in pedestrian traffic routes being restricted or impeded with stock, is a factor in causing trip injuries to the public.

In a commercial premises, if a member of the public is taken from the scene of an accident to a hospital for treatment then this is also reportable under RIDDOR.

Local Authority Health & Safety Inspectors have been directed by the Government to take a more critical stance during inspections and accident investigations to reduce the high accident rate in this area.

 

Falls From Heights

This HSE  website is designed to give employers and other organisations details about the various legal obligations, both to their employees and to others who may be adversely affected by their operations. 

It is also aimed at providing guidance on how to comply with the relevant legislation and to minimise the occurrence of accidents as well as providing useful guidance for a range of "work at height" issues.

It is by no means meant to be a comprehensive guide and where we have failed to mention a specific law or particular work area, it should not be inferred that these are irrelevant to your organisation.

 

Please also take a look at our guide to stepladders pages.