8.5 Slips and Trips

Common causes of slips and trips

A slip is typically caused by a wet or slippery surface or by spilled items. A trip is caused by an obstacle that makes you stumble.

Main control measures for slips and trips

Non-slip surfaces. Changing or modifying walking surfaces is an effective way to prevent slips and trips. Recoating or replacing floors, installing mats, pressure-sensitive abrasive strips or abrasive-filled paint-on coatings, and metal or synthetic decking can all improve safety and lower the risk. Remember that high-tech flooring needs good housekeeping as much as any other flooring. Resilient, non-slip flooring also prevents or reduces foot fatigue and contributes to slip prevention.

Maintenance. Is the floor suitable for the environment, fitted correctly and properly maintained? Are walkways wide enough and level? Are stairs suitable, risers consistent, nosings highlighted where necessary, and usable handrails available? Environmental factors also belong here. Is the lighting good enough for employees to see hazards, and are there distractions that might stop them seeing where they are going?

Housekeeping. Good housekeeping is the fundamental level of slip and trip prevention. It includes:

• cleaning all spills immediately
• marking spills and wet areas
• mopping or sweeping debris from floors
• removing obstacles from walkways and keeping them clear of clutter
• securing, by tacking or taping, mats, rugs and carpets that do not lie flat
• always closing file cabinets and storage drawers
• covering cables that cross walkways
• keeping working areas and walkways well lit
• replacing blown light bulbs and faulty switches

Without good housekeeping, no other preventive measure, such as non-slip flooring, anti-slip footwear or training, will ever be fully effective.

Summary notes for Element 8 · Cheat sheet · Glossary. A study aid, not published or endorsed by NEBOSH.