Trips and Slips – Accidents at Work

Employers should be adhering to the standards of the The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which is the legal framework for workplace safety.

Where safety in the workplace regulations are not followed, a company opens itself up to potential liability if it is deemed that conditions are hazardous to health in whatever way.

What can cause a slip or trip? 

• Crowded, cluttered walkways or items left in corridors.
• Abandoned pallets
• Incorrectly stored trollies/loose cabling/loose tools, etc.
• Loose packaging/coverings/wrappings
• Wet, unmarked surfaces
• Leaks or spills

If an accident is caused by any of the above things or similar, it is important that the cause(s) of the situation are identified. It may be deemed that the employer wasn’t upholding its side of the duty of care and a claim for compensation may be justifiable.

Following procedure

• Report any accident to your employer to ensure that there is a record.
• Follow the instructions of your health and safety representative, and if needs be consult your GP or hospital.

Following the these two steps will make it easier down the line for you if you decide to take legal action against your employer.

Further reading

Accidents at work – Oakwood Solicitors