Who is responsible for slips, trips and falls at work?

Employers are legally required to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, they must protect the health and safety of employees and others affected by their work.

Regulations also require employers to assess risks (1999 Management Regulations) and ensure floors are suitable, clear, and well-maintained (1992 Workplace Regulations).

Employers should take practical action to prevent these incidents because most are avoidable.

The HSE estimate that 95% of all slips, trips and falls on the same level at work are serious incidents that result in broken bones.

• Average cost a year to Employer  £512m
• Average cost a year to Health Service £133m
• 20% of Insurance Premiums are attributed to slips and falls. With good slip management, this potentially could be reduced.

C | Contamination

• Keep floors clear of debris at all times
• Use appropriate cleaning products to remove contamination during routine cleaning
• Follow your company’s cleaning policy and schedule consistently
• Maintain good housekeeping practices across all areas
• Provide accessible and regularly emptied waste bins
• Follow the company spill response plan promptly and visibly after any incident

H | Human

• Manage foot traffic to reduce crowding and congestion in high-risk areas
• Use clear caution and prohibition signage where hazards may be present
• Provide training on manual handling, safe systems of work (SSOW), and relevant safety policies
• Ensure appropriate PPE footwear is worn to reduce slip and trip risks
• Consider individual needs such as mobility, vision, or hearing —covering employees, visitors, and customers (part of employer occupational health duties)

A | Area

• Clearly mark steps, slopes, ramps, and kerb edges; add handrails where needed
• Minimise weather-related risks such as sun glare, rain, and ice wherever possible
• Keep areas free from trip hazards like trailing cables, boxes, and other obstructions
• Store items safely and securely, including boxes and wall-mounted ladders

S | Surface

• Repair or replace damaged or faulty flooring promptly
• Ensure flooring suits its users and environment (e.g., avoid polished floors where high heels are worn or bare feet are common)
• Install appropriate flooring solutions and don’t rely on warning signs to address known hazards
• Use anti-slip products in high-risk areas, such as matting, grip tape, or textured treads