It’s the little things – like not using designated
access points – that caused some serious slips,
trips and falls last year. Don’t risk a short cut –
it could lead you straight to hospital.
• Accidents can and do happen on a job
• In 2009/10 we recorded 622 slips, trips
and falls, many due to taking
unnecessary short cuts
• Short cuts can lead to short lives
382 in Infrastructure Maintenance and 240 in Investment Projects and Asset Management
Result:
Badly bruised shoulder
and collarbone
Cause:
•
Trying to save time by not using an
Approved Access Point for staff on
foot
•
Lack of care and attention when in
the same vicinity as vehicles
Prevention:
•
Make use of the safe pedestrian
access points provided to avoid
accidents with vehicles
•
Be aware of your surroundings
and any dangers at all times
Result:
Shoulder and neck sprain,
and pulled trapezius muscle
Cause:
•
Rushing the job and then falling
•
Carrying too much heavy equipment on back
and in hands when using access steps
Prevention:
•
Always carry a suitable load
•
Use the handrails provided on all stairs
•
Keep walkways clear
•
Spread the load between your workmates or
make further trips
Result:
Top half of fourth finger
amputated, head injuries and
a bruised shoulder
Cause:
•
Heading out to a job without suitable site or
personal lighting
•
Falling on mechanical equipment left by others
Prevention:
•
Use appropriate and/or additional lighting when
necessary
•
Stay alert, even in familiar surroundings
•
Think about your actions and where you leave kit,
and how this might affect others
• Use the Approved Access Points
provided at site and not short cuts
• Take your time, as rushing causes
concentration to lapse and accidents
to happen
• Always use the right PPE, tools and
equipment for the job