Industry news
Bosses warned of winter slip threat
Posted Wed, 06 Jan 2010
Employers have been warned of the need to safeguard their work premises against slips and falls this winter as the icy conditions prove treacherous for employees and members of the public.
Simple measures such as absorbent mats at workplace entrances and exits can minimise the risk of workplace injury and costly compensation claims, according to North West law firm Mace & Jones.
All health and safety precautions and risk assessments should also be documented and filed by employers in order to protect themselves against litigation.
Mace & Jones Personal Injury Lawyer, Jeremy Bradshaw, said: "Extra care should be taken over places where there is a greater risk of danger, such as steps or slopes. Care should also be taken to prevent slipping in instances of transfer of snow or water off shoes on to polished floors as people enter buildings.
"Absorbent mats should be placed inside doors to collect water off shoes. Regular checks should be made to ensure that the mats haven't become too damp and are failing to absorb the water.
"The lack of any documentary evidence may mean that an employer or building manager can't satisfy a court that systems were in place to prevent the injury resulting in them being found liable and having to pay compensation."
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Health and Safety Executive