In the workplace, we’re protected by the law which puts a duty on employers to provide a safe work environment for all employees. The Health and Safety Act 1974 imposes this legal duty because all employees deserve to be protected whilst working.
Unfortunately, workplace injuries are not uncommon.
Slip, trips and falls are extremely common and make up a large percentage of all work-related injuries. There are various other laws that further protect employees by putting rules in place to prevent specific injuries from happening in the first place. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulation 1999 requires all employers to assess the workplace for any potential risks.
Removing avoidable risks
Employers should look out for anything that employees might slip, trip or fall over; no matter how big or small. All potential slip, trip and falling risks should be removed as soon as possible, and workplaces should be altered to reduce any risks, and adequate measures should be taken to warn anyone who might come across an unavoidable risk.
Even the smallest risk can cause the biggest of injuries. A small spillage is easy to mop up, but if left, it could potentially cause a fatal slip and fall. We’re not being over-reactive here – you bang your head, and it could be permanent…
Common accidents
Some of the most common injuries are caused by the following risks:
- Uneven floors
- Wet and slippery floors
- Unsuitable floor covers being used
- Cables lying around on the floor
- Bad lighting
- Obstacles on the path
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulation from 1992 require that floors, where practically possible, should NOT:
- Have holes
- Have slopes
- Be uneven
- Be slippery
Section 12(3) explicitly says:
“So far as is reasonably practicable, every floor in a workplace and the surface of every traffic route in a workplace shall be kept free from obstructions and from any article or substance which may cause a person to slip, trip or fall.”
I’ve had a slip, trip and fall at work. How can I claim?
As soon as your injury has occurred at work, it’s worth noting it in the accident book. Write down exactly what happened, how it happened and what injuries you suffered as a result. A detailed and accurate account could help you bring a stronger claim later on.
You should, of course, seek medical attention as required. Keep a record of any visits to the hospital or to anywhere else.
Finally, speak to The Injury Lawyers as soon as possible. Tell us what happened as soon as you can so we can help you bring a claim as quickly as possible.