K D writes: This column recently discussed health and safety at work but what about accidents such as slips and falls? Surely they are impossible to prevent, and with so many advertisements for “no win, no fee” claims, employers are going to face legal action.

Slips in the workplace are common, with nearly 11,000 workers suffering serious injury as a result of a slip or trip last year, writes Peter Done, managing director of Peninsula, the employment-law firm.

Preventive measures can be taken to reduce the risk. Health and safety legislation makes you responsible for the welfare of your staff and visitors which includes preventing potential slips and trips.

First, conduct a risk assessment. Look at whether staff clean as they go, whether you have spillage controls in place and if staff are trained to remove obstructions from floors or dispose of rubbish.

Walkways should be clear of obstacles with no trailing wires or other blockages restricting movement. All spillages should be cleaned up immediately.

Encourage all employees to ensure their work area is kept tidy and make them responsible rather than leaving it to somebody else.

Introduce measures that prevent contamination from spreading into other areas — for example, fit drip trays under machines and racking; use appropriate mats at entrances and so on.

Look at improved lighting and additional signs where possible. If workers are unable to spot hazardous situations, then the chance of an accident increases.

Don’t forget that the weather can also prove a risk, creating possible slip and trip conditions — wet floors where people walk through, or in a warehouse where vehicles may carry water onto the floor.

Check the condition of the floors for holes, uneven floors, loose carpets, and unmarked changes in floor levels that may need improving.

You may need to change the type of floor surface to improve grip, and reduce slips, but first identify the potential causes and then look to eliminate the risks.

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