Falls in the workplace remain a serious and preventable hazard, leading to life-changing injuries and fatalities worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), falls account for 684,000 deaths globally each year. In the UK, slips, trips, and falls (STFs) make up 31% of all non-fatal workplace injuries, making them the most common cause of workplace accidents (HSE, 2024).
A recent IOSH magazine article highlights the significant impact of workplace falls and the importance of proactive safety measures (Read the full article here). Whether it’s falls from height or slips on the same level, businesses must take action to reduce risks and protect employees.
The Cost of Workplace Falls: Injuries, Lost Workdays, and Business Impact
Falls in the workplace can have serious and far-reaching consequences for both employees and businesses. Beyond the immediate physical injuries, such as fractures, sprains, and head trauma, falls often lead to long-term health complications and extended recovery periods. For workers, this can mean loss of income, reduced mobility, and mental distress, impacting their overall well-being. Additionally, workplace falls contribute to significant lost workdays, reduced productivity, and increased insurance and compensation costs. According to HSE, slips, trips, and falls are one of the leading causes of workplace absence, causing thousands of lost working days every year – proving that prevention is key.
The Role of Risk Assessments in Fall Prevention
Effective risk assessments will help businesses to:
✅ Identify high-risk areas where slips, trips, and falls are most likely to occur.
✅ Address hazards such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and trailing cables.
✅ Implement preventative measures like anti-slip flooring, handrails, and proper footwear policies.
✅ Reduce the risk of serious injuries, particularly among older workers who are more vulnerable to fall-related harm.
How We Can Help
At Safety CDM Ltd, we are committed to helping businesses identify and implement effective measures to control workplace risks. Our expertise ensures that fall hazards are proactively managed to create a safe working environment.
✅ Ensure Compliance with CDM Regulations
Helping businesses meet Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) to maintain a safe and legally compliant work environment.
🔍 Risk Assessment Support
Assisting in identifying and eliminating fall hazards through comprehensive workplace risk assessments. Our team can support with developing and maintaining site-specific risk assessments and method statements, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
🏗️ Site Inspections & Safety Audits
Conducting thorough on-site evaluations to assess compliance, improve safety standards, and minimise risks associated with slips, trips, and falls. By taking preventative action, you can protect your workforce, improve operational efficiency, and foster a strong safety culture.
📧 Email us at info@cdm2015regs.co.uk
📞 Call us on 01494 445774
Take Action Before an Accident Happens
Workplace falls are preventable—but only with the right safety culture and proactive measures. Employers must ensure that hazards are spotted early, risk assessments are conducted regularly, and employees are trained to recognise dangers.
🔗 Useful Resources:
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides essential resources to help organisations take proactive steps in preventing workplace falls:
📌 HSE Work at Height Guidance – A detailed guide to preventing falls from height.
📌 HSE Slips and Trips Hazard Spotting Checklist – A practical tool to help identify and eliminate slip and trip hazards in the workplace.
📌 Safe Use of Ladders and Stepladders – Essential guidance on simple, sensible precautions to take for ladder safety and accident prevention.
