Health and Safety Reminder – Autumn and Winter Site Safety

Preventing slips, trips and falls as the nights draw in

Darker evenings and colder weather can increase the risk of slips, trips and falls in the workplace.

Slips and trips are the most common type of workplace accident and can also lead to other types of accidents, such as falls from height or into machinery.

Slips and trips are among the most common causes of workplace accidents and can also contribute to more serious incidents, including falls from height.

At this time of year, particular attention should be given to:

• Poor or inadequate lighting.
• Wet and slippery surfaces caused by rainfall.
• Fallen leaves and debris on pedestrian routes.
• Ice, frost and snow.
• Uneven surfaces, trailing cables and other trip hazards.

Construction Site Safety

Principal Contractors and those responsible for managing construction sites are reminded to review their arrangements to ensure:

• Adequate lighting is provided to work areas, pedestrian routes, access points and emergency escape routes.
• Pedestrian routes are maintained in a safe condition and kept clear of obstructions.
• Wet leaves, standing water, mud and other slip hazards are appropriately managed.
• Temporary lighting is provided where work continues during reduced daylight hours.
• Site inspections and risk assessments take account of changing weather conditions and reduced visibility.

Lighting at work – HSE guidance

Good lighting is essential to maintaining a safe working environment, particularly during the darker months.

The HSE publication Lighting at Work (HSG38) provides guidance on:

• Assessing and managing risks associated with inadequate lighting.
• Good practice for workplace lighting.
• Recommended minimum lighting levels.

Further information is available through the following HSE resources:

• HSE – Slips and Trips in Construction
• HSE – Site Lighting
• HSE – Lighting at Work (HSG38)

Please take the opportunity to review your current arrangements and ensure appropriate measures are in place to protect employees, contractors and visitors.