Slips, trips and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries in the UK. They affect construction sites, warehouses, workshops, and maintenance environments alike — often resulting in lost time, investigations, and avoidable costs.
The good news is that most slip, trip and fall incidents are entirely preventable. This guide explains the practical steps UK worksites can take to reduce risk using the right equipment, layout, and day-to-day controls.
Why Slips, Trips and Falls Still Happen
Common causes across UK sites include:
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Uneven or poorly maintained floor surfaces
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Wet or contaminated walkways
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Inappropriate ladders or improvised access
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Trailing cables, hoses, or materials
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Poor housekeeping and overcrowded storage
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Inadequate lighting
Addressing these issues doesn’t require complex systems — it starts with good planning and the right site equipment.
1. Choose the Right Access Equipment
Incorrect access equipment is a major contributor to falls, especially when ladders are used for tasks better suited to podiums or platforms.
Best practice includes:
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Using EN131-certified ladders
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Selecting podium steps for longer or repetitive tasks
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Ensuring ladders are positioned on firm, level ground
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Avoiding overreaching or side loading
Explore safe access solutions:
👉 Ladders & Podiums
https://www.247direct.com/collections/ladders-podiums
2. Improve Housekeeping and Storage
Poor housekeeping is one of the biggest causes of trip hazards.
Effective controls include:
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Keeping walkways clearly marked and unobstructed
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Removing unused tools and packaging promptly
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Storing materials off the floor
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Securing cables and hoses away from pedestrian routes
Proper storage reduces clutter and keeps work areas organised.
👉 Storage & Safety Equipment
https://www.247direct.com/collections/storage-safety
3. Control Spill Risks Properly
Liquids are a leading cause of slip accidents, particularly in industrial and maintenance environments.
Every site should have:
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Spill kits matched to the substances used
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Absorbent materials positioned near risk areas
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Clear spill response procedures
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Regular checks to ensure kits are complete
COSHH-compliant storage helps prevent leaks before they happen.
4. Reduce Working-at-Height Risks
Falls don’t only happen from significant heights — even low-level falls can cause serious injury.
Risk reduction measures include:
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Using podiums instead of steps where possible
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Installing guardrails or edge protection
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Planning tasks to minimise climbing
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Using fall protection where elimination isn’t possible
Certified fall-protection equipment is essential when working at height.
👉 Checkmate® Fall Protection
https://www.247direct.com/collections/checkmate
5. Ensure Adequate Lighting and Visibility
Poor lighting increases the likelihood of missteps, especially around changes in level.
Simple improvements include:
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Adequate lighting in walkways and stairwells
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Prompt replacement of damaged or flickering lights
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Temporary lighting for changing site layouts
Good visibility supports safer movement throughout the workplace.
Top Questions About Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls
What are the most common causes of slips and trips?
Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor housekeeping, and trailing cables are the most common causes.
Are ladders a frequent source of fall incidents?
Yes. Falls often occur due to incorrect ladder choice, poor positioning, or overreaching.
How does storage reduce trip hazards?
Proper storage keeps tools, materials, and chemicals off the floor, reducing obstructions and clutter.
When is fall protection required?
When the risk of a fall cannot be eliminated through safer access methods such as podiums or platforms.
How often should slip and trip risks be reviewed?
Risk assessments should be reviewed regularly and whenever site conditions change.
Final Thoughts
Preventing slips, trips and falls comes down to choosing the right equipment, keeping sites organised, and maintaining consistent safety routines. Small improvements can have a major impact on safety and productivity.
247Direct supports safer UK worksites with:
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Ladders & Podiums
https://www.247direct.com/collections/ladders-podiums -
Storage & Safety
https://www.247direct.com/collections/storage-safety -
Checkmate® Fall Protection
https://www.247direct.com/collections/checkmate