This is the second part of a series of posts about different types and causes of accident at work. This entry will focus on slips and trips in the workplace caused by both objects and liquids that should not be in the way and poorly maintained work surfaces.
Slipping or Tripping due to Objects or Liquids
Slipping or Tripping due to Objects or Liquids
Over 50% of all tripping accidents are caused by obstacles that shouldn't be present. This can easily be avoided by ensuring that suitably sized walkways are clear and there are no obstructions. Loose wires should be avoided to avoid tripping and objects should be kept clear of walkways. It is your responsibility as the employee to keep your area tidy and not cause any obstructions elsewhere but it is your employers responsibility to instill this attitude in all employees. They should also make sure necessary cleaning equipment and bins etc. are available.
Liquids from leakages and spillages can also be very problematic. You should always ensure that any spillages of drinks or similar are cleaned up immediately so that they don’t pose a threat to yourself or others. A common leakage problem can occur in warehouses with operating fork-lift trucks. Oil can often leak from these trucks and pose a slipping hazard. You should warn your employer of any leakages like this immediately and they should have it cleaned up immediately.
Slipping or Tripping due to Poorly Maintained Work Surfaces
Flooring in any work place should be sufficiently suitable for the activity to be undertaken on it. It should always be kept dry where possible but in a place where this isn’t possible it should be sufficiently rough so that the moisture doesn’t pose a slipping hazard.
The floor must also be maintained correctly. Your employer must ensure that surfaces are even and tripping hazards like upturned carpet, holes and cracks are not present. Cleaning is also essential to make sure dirt can’t build up and pose a threat of slipping.
Changes of level suck as ramps, steps and raised platforms should be avoided but if they are necessary they must be well highlighted. The same applies to sets of stairs. Simple precautions such as a sign warning of danger can prevent an accident at work.
Liquids from leakages and spillages can also be very problematic. You should always ensure that any spillages of drinks or similar are cleaned up immediately so that they don’t pose a threat to yourself or others. A common leakage problem can occur in warehouses with operating fork-lift trucks. Oil can often leak from these trucks and pose a slipping hazard. You should warn your employer of any leakages like this immediately and they should have it cleaned up immediately.
Slipping or Tripping due to Poorly Maintained Work Surfaces
Flooring in any work place should be sufficiently suitable for the activity to be undertaken on it. It should always be kept dry where possible but in a place where this isn’t possible it should be sufficiently rough so that the moisture doesn’t pose a slipping hazard.
The floor must also be maintained correctly. Your employer must ensure that surfaces are even and tripping hazards like upturned carpet, holes and cracks are not present. Cleaning is also essential to make sure dirt can’t build up and pose a threat of slipping.
Changes of level suck as ramps, steps and raised platforms should be avoided but if they are necessary they must be well highlighted. The same applies to sets of stairs. Simple precautions such as a sign warning of danger can prevent an accident at work.
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