Information on how to manage the risk from slips, trips and falls on University premises
Data published by the HSE suggests that slips, trips and falls (on stairs and the level) are the most common cause of injury at work, accounting for over a third of major injuries to workers and over half of reported injuries to members of the public. The Health and Safety Commission’s Revitalising Strategy of 2000 recognised this by setting targets for accident reduction in this area, and universities have signed up these targets. The HSE regards slips and trips as one of their priorities and inspectors are likely to investigate the more serious ones.
Slips, trips and falls make up a high proportion of the University’s accidents. They are often disproportionately costly, both to the individual (because of pain and suffering) and to the organisation (because of lost time or the cost of compensation).
This policy statement examines some causes of slip, trips and falls and suggests practical ways of reducing or eliminating them at minimal cost, including details on:
