Simple measures to protect your staff and your business

FOR BOTH EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES, SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS ARE A MAJOR ISSUE

÷ In Ireland, every working day, seven people are hurt in workplace slips, trips and falls. ÷ Every working day, at least one person is so badly hurt that they miss over a month from work. ÷ Slips, trips and falls are the second-highest single cause of workplace injuries. ÷ There were about 1,700 workplace slips, trips and falls reported in 2017. ÷ A greater percentage of slips, trips and falls lead to over a month off work, compared to all other accidents ÷ Females account for a significant percentage of slips, trips and falls victims

TO REDUCE ACCIDENTS ON STAIRS AND STEPS

÷ Prohibit hazardous activities, encourage use of handrails and highlight short or irregular steps.

÷ Remove distractions like posters, and provide contrasting step edges (or nosings) and contrasting handrails.

÷ Identify hazardous steps, eliminate slippery surfaces.

÷ Provide handrails that permit a firm grip.

SLIPPERY SURFACES ARE ALSO A SERIOUS HAZARD. COUNTERACT THIS BY:

÷ Identifying areas where a risk of slippage exists.

÷ Deep clean surfaces to restore slip resistance.

÷ Control spills and try to prevent them.

÷ Change surfaces to a slip resistant one. Improving drainage can also reduce the risk of slips. For further details on steps to take in avoiding slips and trips, visit www.hsa.ie.