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Slips, trips and falls

Common slip, trip and fall hazards and precautions you can take to prevent these

​People must be able to move around the workplace safely. Slips, trips and falls are among the most common causes of accidents and injury at work.

Visitors may also be at risk, both inside and outside premises under your control.

​Use the links below to find information on common slip, trip and fall hazards and how to assess these. You will also find resources and precautions you can take to prevent slips, trips and falls and your legal duties.

  1. Common slip, trip and fall hazards
  2. Slip, trip and fall safety precautions
  3. Slip, trip and fall legislation

3. Slip, trip and fall legislation

Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992

These cover all aspects of the workplace, including a requirement that floors are suitable, in good condition and free from obstructions.

Visit the HSE ​site for Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations​

Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974

The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 places the general duty on you to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of all your employees.

To achieve this you need to provide adequate

  • training
  • instruction
  • information
  • supervision.

It also places duties on employees to take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others. They must cooperate with their employer to help them meet their legal obligations.

Management of Health and Safety at Work

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 state you must assess the risks to employees and make arrangements for their health and safety by effective

  • planning
  • organising
  • control
  • monitoring
  • review.

Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992

Personal Protective Eq​uipment Regulations 1992 place duties on you to protect your employees from the risk of injury in the workplace. This includes a requirement to provide and ensure the correct use of suitable personal protective equipment. This could include footwear if required.