A further education college’s Health & Safety Team member enhanced their knowledge on slip, trip, and fall prevention by participating in a seminar hosted by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). They further delved into the topic by consulting the HSE’s complimentary ‘Education Information Sheet No 2 – Preventing slip & trip incidents in the education sector,’ which spurred them to conduct a risk assessment at their institution.
The preliminary risk assessment revealed that certain college areas were safe under clean and dry conditions but became hazardous when soiled or moist. Hazards identified included water tracked onto the vinyl corridors from outside, liquid spills in common room areas with vinyl flooring, and dust accumulation on the painted workshop floors, all contributing to an increased risk of slips.
The college’s Senior Management Team was promptly involved and supported the Health & Safety Team’s proposals for preventative measures.
Immediate measures implemented included:
- Installing high-quality entrance mats designed to effectively dry footwear, carefully positioned to cover actual pedestrian pathways, which aren’t always direct from the entrance.
- The main corridors have been fitted with carpeting to reduce slip hazards.
- Workshops susceptible to spills now feature anti-slip flooring that provides sufficient grip even when contaminants are present.
Further actions initiated or in progress:
- Installation of new main entrance doors that mitigate rainwater ingress onto floor surfaces.
- Introduction of lidded containers for take-away beverages in the staff and student dining areas, reducing the chances of spill-related accidents in high-traffic areas like walkways and stairs.
- The addition of anti-slip and high-visibility stair treads.
- Expanding surveys to more areas like the hair & beauty studio and craft workshops to evaluate and address the risks posed by both liquid and solid floor contaminants.
Since implementing these safety enhancements, the college has observed a consistent annual reduction in slip, trip, and fall incidents.