Prevent Spills to Control Slips (Trips and Falls)

In 2015, 18% of 477 HSA workplace visits found that in work areas not exposed to the weather, the STF risk assessment had not identified/ put in place reasonable precautions to prevent spills In 2015, formal action including use of enforcement notices occurred in HSA workplace visits where the employer failed to put in place reasonable precautions to prevent spills

• Consider using contoured/moulded pallets for liquid container storage and display - to reduce the risk of containers being knocked over
• Display/ store liquids so spill not likely to get onto walkways. Do not put containers of liquid too close to the front of shelves
• Store containers, particularly of liquid, with the opening on top - unless specifically designed to be stored with the opening on the side or bottom

• Consider the use of floor mats near liquid containers. This may also help reduce losses through breakages
• Merchandising material & paper/ magazine inserts can be slippery
• Provide containers for customers to carry their goods
• Maintain equipment and pipework in good working order with proper seals and valves
• Small fruit/vegetable items such as grapes and tomatoes, may be high risk. Provide floor mats or display items pre-packed
• Control water needed for flower display and use floor mats if required
• Dispose of packing material and other wrappings carefully. Do not leave them lying around the floor

Spill risks are an important part of Slip Risk Assessment and Prevention

A risk assessment approach to Spills slips (trips and falls) can include the following steps

1. Identify Risks
2. Prevent
3. Contain
4. Detect
5. Cordon
6. Remove