Slips, Trips and Falls: A Leading Cause of Workplace Injury
Slips, trips and falls on the same level are consistently among the most common causes of reported workplace injuries in the UK, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). They affect almost every type of workplace — from offices and shops to warehouses, kitchens and construction sites — and can result in anything from minor bruising to fractures, head injuries and long-term absence from work.
What the Law Requires
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must assess the risks to employees and visitors and take reasonable steps to control them. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 specifically require floors and traffic routes to be suitable, in good condition and free from obstructions that could cause a person to slip, trip or fall.
In practice, this means:
- Floors must be even, well maintained and free of holes or uneven surfaces
- Spills must be cleared up promptly, with appropriate signage while this happens
- Walkways must be kept clear of trailing cables, boxes and other obstructions
- Adequate lighting must be provided in all walkways and work areas
- Appropriate footwear must be provided where floor conditions present a particular risk
Slips, Trips and Falls Training
The Slips, Trips and Falls e-learning course takes around 60–80 minutes to complete and is suitable for employees at any level. It covers why slips, trips and falls happen, the law that applies, and practical ways to reduce risk — making it a quick, cost-effective way to raise awareness across a whole team.
Practical Ways to Reduce the Risk
- Housekeeping — keep walkways, stairs and fire exits clear at all times
- Spill response — clean spills immediately and use warning signs while floors dry
- Cable management — route cables away from walkways or cover them securely
- Footwear — provide slip-resistant footwear in kitchens, warehouses and outdoor work areas
- Lighting and signage — ensure changes in floor level, steps and ramps are clearly visible
Frequently Asked Questions
Are slips, trips and falls really that common at work?
Yes — HSE statistics consistently show slips, trips and falls on the same level among the leading causes of non-fatal injuries reported by employers each year, across almost every sector.
Do I need a formal risk assessment for slip and trip hazards?
If your business employs five or more people, you're legally required to record significant findings from your risk assessments, including any slip, trip or fall hazards and the steps you've taken to control them. Our Slips, Trips & Falls Risk Assessment Tool walks you through the HSE hazard checklist for any area and produces a printable record you can file.
How long does the Slips, Trips and Falls course take?
Around 60–80 minutes, making it one of the quickest ways to deliver meaningful health and safety training across a team.