In HSE publication INDG225 Preventing Slips and Trips at Work, there is a recommended five-step approach to assessing slip and trip hazards, as follows:
- Step 1 — Look for slip and trip hazards around the workplace, such as uneven floors, trailing cables, areas that are sometimes slippery due to spillages. Include outdoor areas.
- Step 2 — Decide who might be harmed and how? Who comes into the workplace? Are they at risk? Do you have any control over them? Remember that older people and people with disabilities may be at particular risk.
- Step 3 — Consider the risks. Are the precautions already taken adequate to deal with the risks?
- Step 4 — Record your findings if you have five or more employees.
- Step 5 — Regularly review the assessment. If any significant changes take place, make sure existing precautions and management arrangements are still adequate to deal with the risks.
The HSE also has an assessment tool on its website which you can download and use to help establish the levels of risk. Alternatively, there is a risk assessment questionnaire in the appendix to help you focus on the most important issues.