Take fall prevention seriously, urges RoSPA

Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide¹ and slips, trips and falls are the most common cause of injury at work², costing the NHS £2 billion and over four million bed days every year.¹. Yet despite the stark figures, RoSPA says there’s still a lot to do when it comes to fall prevention.

Karen McDonnell, OHS policy advisor at RoSPA said, “We recognise that slips and trips are one of the most common yet overlooked causes of injury and death in the workplace – whether that’s falls from height or on the shop floor. While the figures make bleak reading, the positive news is that we can prevent falls, it just takes planning and resource.

Advising on steps businesses can take to reduce falls in the workplace, Karen said, “Creating and implementing a falls prevention strategy does not depend on vast sums of money and can be easily achieved by following simple steps. It can be as straightforward as keeping work areas tidy and ensuring walkways are clear, to clear cable management systems and the installation of handrails alongside stairs.

“Having dedicated health and safety team members who regularly check their areas to identify and remedy slip and trip hazards is key, as well as the mindset of ‘see it, sort it and report it.’ While these steps might seem obvious, they can be the difference between life and death.

“For businesses looking to bolster their workplace safety, we advise seeking professional support and guidance from a reputable health and safety organisation – not only can it protect your team and clients, it protects your bottom line too.”

RoSPA has worked closely with businesses of all sizes including homebuilders Berkley Group and Orbit Homes to reduce injuries deaths on stairs at home via its Safer Stairs campaign, which looks to reduce falls on the stairs. It is estimated that stairs in new homes built to the British Standard BS5395-1 would reduce the risk of falls by a staggering 60 per cent. Enshrining BS5395-1 into law would therefore save the NHS up to £5 million every year through accident reduction. This change is currently being consulted on.

References

1. Falls (who.int)
2. Preventing slips and trips at work: A brief guide (hse.gov.uk)