Trip injuries

Slips and trips are the most common causes of serious injuries at work. If you have suffered an injury as a result of a slip or trip at work, you may be entitled to compensation.

Slips and trips are commonly caused by the following:

• Surfaces that are wet or contaminated with spills or other substances
• Uneven floor surfaces 
• Route obstructions 
• Poor lighting on stairways, steps and routes 
• Trailing cables

How does the health and safety law protect you?

The health and safety law requires employers to ensure that, as far as it is practical, every floor in the work place and the surface of every route is kept free from obstructions and from any substances which may cause a person to slip or fall.

If a spillage or obstruction is left on the floor or route by another employee, the employer is responsible for the actions of that employee.

If a floor is being mopped, a sign should be displayed warning people of the risk of slipping.

Proving that your employer was at fault

You will be able to prove that your employer was to blame if you can show that:

1. Your employer created a tripping hazard by permitting the placing of an obstruction on the floor 
2. The route or steps were poorly lit 
3. Your employer failed to keep the floor free of obstruction 
4. Your employer exposed you to the risk of injury by failing to keep the floor even 
5. Your employer allowed you to work in an unsafe location 
6. Your employer failed to provide you with competent colleagues 
7. Your employer allowed the floor to be contaminated with spills or other substances.

The evidence you need to win your case

• Your written statement. It is important that you make an accurate note of what happened (the place, time and witnesses) and why it happened 
• Draw a sketch of the place where the accident occurred 
• Take a few photographs of the place of the accident 
• Report the accident to your supervisor or manager and ensure that it is recorded in the accident record book. If you are not well, do not sign the accident Report 
• Attend your GP or hospital. 
• You should also make a note of any previous complaints by you or your colleagues. 
• Record any action taken by your employer after the accident to remove the obstruction or spillage.

If you have suffered an injury at work due to a trip or slip give us a call on 0800 321 3287 for free advice. You may be entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation.