Slips and trips remain most common workplace accident

13:35:00 Thursday 22nd July 2010

The most common kind of major injury sustained at work is slipping, tripping and falling, according to new research.

RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) found that 36 per cent of all major injuries at work are slips and trips.

More than 15,000 employee injuries reported to RIDDOR over 2009 and 2009 were slips and trips along the same level - for example, tripping over a wire on a level floor, followed by falls from a height - such as a fall from a ladder.

Injuries sustained whilst handling, lifting or carrying such as lifting boxes and stacking shelves – were the next most common, followed by injuries sustained after being struck by a moving or falling object - such as a box falling from a shelf.


As not all injuries or accidents are reported to RIDDOR, this figure could be much higher.

While a slip or trip can seem minor, in reality they can result in head injuries, broken bones and major fractures to limbs and even death where the fall is from height.

Employers should take care to ensure flooring is suitable and worn flooring is replaced, any ice is cleared and the area is sanded or gritted and trailing cables are hidden away.

Flooring should also be cleaned regularly using appropriate cleaning materials and adequate hand rails, guard rails and sufficient lighting must be in place.

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