Abstract:

Slips, trips and falls were the single major cause of injuries in the workplace in 2000-2001. Legislation covering the prevention of slips and falls includes The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. Under the legislation employers are required to reduce the risks of accidents in the workplace. A risk assessment program reviewed and updated regularly and an effective cleaning and maintenance program should be established to help reduce slipping and tripping hazards in the workplace. Work shoes should be appropriate to the floor surface, lighting should be adequate. Management should adopt good health and safety policies aimed at accident prevention.