Slips, trips and falls

Slips, trips and falls are the main cause of accidents in the workplace that result in more than 3 days absence from work.

The main causes of slips, trips and falls includes:

  • spills
  • wet surfaces
  • damaged flooring
  • changes in level of floors
  • slippery surfaces
  • transition areas, for example, carpeted to tiled floor
  • cables, mats and other floor obstructions
  • overused warning or safety signs
  • footwear
  • inadequate or inappropriate lighting

Safety guidance to prevent slips, trips, and falls (PDF, 424.5KB)

Slips, trips and falls examples

Managers carrying out a risk assessment

You must ensure that slips, trips and falls are assessed as part of the risk assessment.

When carrying out the risk assessment, you should consider:

  • the use of the premises
  • the occupancy of the premises
  • the services being supplied
  • the activity that takes place

Related files

Contact HSE Health and Safety helpdesk

Use the Health and Safety self-service portal or

Phone: 1800 420 420

Monday to Friday 10.30am to 12 noon and 2.00pm to 3.30pm