Common slip, trip and fall hazards - Slips, trips and falls

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

Most slips and trips are caused by

poor lighting
trailing cables
unsuitable floor coverings
uneven or damaged floor surfaces
contaminated floor surfaces, for example liquid or grease
poor housekeeping, for example tripping or falling over something left in a walk way.

When considering areas in your workplace that could cause a hazard remember to take into account

any outdoor areas
differing weather conditions
working activities carried out off your premises.

Carry out a risk assessment

The best way to identify Slip, Trip and Fall hazards and ways to control them in your workplace is to discuss the issue with staff and carry out a risk assessment.

Find out how to carry out a risk assessment