Slips, trips and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries across the UK. They can occur in almost every industry, from offices and retail stores to warehouses, construction sites, healthcare settings and hospitality businesses.
Although many incidents result in relatively minor injuries, some can lead to fractures, head injuries, long-term musculoskeletal problems or extended periods away from work.
Effective prevention relies on identifying hazards, maintaining good housekeeping, carrying out suitable risk assessments and encouraging employees to report unsafe conditions before accidents occur.
This guide explains why slips, trips and falls happen, how employers can reduce the risks and how these incidents fit within workplace first aid and health and safety management.
This information is general guidance and should not be considered legal advice.
Although often grouped together, slips, trips and falls are different types of incidents.
| Incident | Description |
|---|---|
| Slip | Loss of grip between footwear and the walking surface. |
| Trip | Foot strikes an object or uneven surface causing loss of balance. |
| Fall | Person loses balance and falls to the same level or from height. |
Each type of incident may result in different injuries and often has different underlying causes.
Almost every workplace contains walking routes, stairs, entrances and work areas where people move throughout the day.
Even small hazards can significantly increase the likelihood of an accident.
Common contributing factors include:
Slips, trips and falls can occur in any workplace, but some industries experience higher exposure due to the nature of the work.
Related guides:
Many slips and trips result from hazards that can often be identified during routine inspections.
| Hazard | Possible Risk |
|---|---|
| Wet floors | Slipping |
| Loose cables | Tripping |
| Damaged flooring | Trips and falls |
| Poor lighting | Reduced hazard visibility |
| Obstructed walkways | Trips and collisions |
| Ice or snow | Outdoor slips |
Good housekeeping is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce slips and trips.
Businesses should aim to:
Simple housekeeping measures can significantly reduce accident risks.
Employers should consider slips, trips and falls when carrying out workplace risk assessments.
Risk assessments may consider:
See Workplace First Aid Risk Assessment.
Outdoor walkways may become hazardous during rain, snow, ice or leaf fall.
Businesses should consider seasonal hazards and implement suitable precautions where appropriate.
Examples include:
Suitable footwear may help reduce slip risks depending on the work being carried out.
Employers should consider workplace conditions when determining appropriate footwear requirements.
Temporary warning signs may be appropriate when hazards cannot immediately be removed, such as during floor cleaning.
However, signs should support hazard control rather than replace it.
See Workplace Safety Signs Explained.
The appropriate first aid response depends on the injury sustained.
Slips and falls may result in:
Related guides:
Workplace slips, trips and falls should be reported and recorded in accordance with company procedures.
Accurate reporting helps identify trends and supports future risk assessments.
See Accident Reporting & First Aid Records.
Not every slip or trip results in injury.
Employees should still report hazards and near misses, as these incidents often highlight issues that could lead to future accidents.
See Near Miss Reporting Explained.
Slips, trips and falls are among the most common workplace accidents, but many can be prevented through effective housekeeping, suitable risk assessments, good workplace design and employee awareness.
By identifying hazards early and encouraging prompt reporting of unsafe conditions, businesses can help create a safer working environment for employees, contractors and visitors.
Explore our most popular first aid kits for home, car, travel, family trips, camping, workplace and everyday emergencies.
£17.95 £14.95
£17.95 £10.95
£25.95 £15.95
£7.59
£25.99 £14.99
£12.99 £9.99
£25.95 £15.95
