Slips and trips are the most frequently reported cause of non-fatal injuries in UK workplaces, accounting for around one-third of all incidents reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). While these accidents are often dismissed as minor, they can lead to serious consequences, including fractures, head injuries, soft tissue damage, and extended time off work.

These incidents can occur in virtually any working environment, from offices and retail stores to construction sites, hospitals, and warehouses, making it essential for employers to take active steps to identify hazards and implement safety controls.

Common Causes of Slips and Trips

Despite being avoidable, slips and trips continue to occur due to poor housekeeping, inadequate maintenance, and a lack of safety awareness. The most common causes include:

  • Wet or slippery floors from cleaning, spills, or weather conditions.
  • Loose mats or rugs, or uneven floor surfaces.
  • Trailing cables or obstructive objects left in walkways.
  • Poor lighting that makes hazards difficult to spot.
  • Lack of handrails on stairs or poorly maintained steps.
  • Inappropriate footwear, particularly in environments where grip is essential.

Employer Responsibilities Under UK Law

Employers have a legal duty to ensure the workplace is safe and free from avoidable hazards under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

Specific responsibilities include:

  • Carrying out regular risk assessments to identify potential trip and slip hazards.
  • Implementing control measures, such as slip-resistant flooring, signage, and proper drainage.
  • Maintaining a clean and tidy work environment, including prompt spill response and cable management.
  • Ensuring suitable lighting is in place throughout all work areas.
  • Providing appropriate footwear where working conditions require it.
  • Training staff to recognise risks and take preventative steps.

Where employers fail in their duty of care and an injury occurs as a result, they may be liable to pay compensation.

What to Do After a Slip or Trip at Work

If you suffer a slip or trip at work, it’s important to act quickly and properly:

  • Seek medical attention; even seemingly minor falls can cause internal injuries.
  • Report the incident to your employer and make sure it is entered in the accident book.
  • Take photographs of the hazard or the area where you fell, if possible.
  • Collect witness statements from any colleagues who saw the incident.
  • Keep records of your medical treatment, expenses, and any time off work.
  • Contact Ison Harrison Sols to determine whether you may be entitled to compensation.

Claiming Compensation for Slips and Trips

If your accident was caused by unsafe conditions, poor maintenance, or a failure to address known hazards, you may have grounds to pursue a claim. Compensation can cover:

  • Expenses: including medical treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Financial losses: damaged clothing, travel expenses etc
  • Loss of earnings due to time off work.
  • Pain, suffering, and long-term impact on your quality of life.

Each claim is assessed on its individual facts, including the severity of the injury and the degree of employer negligence.

Preventing Slips and Trips at Work

Workplace safety is a shared responsibility—but employers are best placed to create and maintain a safe environment.

Employers should:

  • Develop a routine inspection schedule to spot hazards early.
  • Install slip-resistant flooring where needed.
  • Display clear warning signs after cleaning or during adverse weather.
  • Address structural issues, such as uneven floors or broken steps, without delay.

Employees should:

  • Take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others.
  • Report hazards such as spills, clutter, or lighting issues immediately.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and avoid rushing in high-risk areas.

Slips and trips are entirely preventable with the right systems and attitudes in place. If you’ve been injured due to poor safety practices in your workplace, our experienced team can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.