Steps to cut slips
February 1st 2006

The construction industry reports in excess of 3000 slip or trip incidents every year and, as part of an initiative to reduce this figure, Health and Safety Executive inspectors are carrying out a nationwide 'Watch Your Step' inspection programme throughout February.

Most slip and trip incidents are caused by corridors and stairways being obstructed with tools, materials and waste. Trip hazards may be caused by paths which are not properly levelled, or trailing cables.

During a similar inspection initiative in October 2005, inspectors took enforcement action at 11% of the sites they visited in respect of good order issues.

To support the initiative, organisations such as UCATT, TGWU, NASC, NCF and CECA will be distributing free Good Order 'toolbox talk' packs to their members.

Packs contain a 5min DVD, a booklet and a poster.

A limited supply of packs is available free from HSE Books, or can be downloaded from the HSE website: www.hse.gov.uk/construction/slips/index.htm

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