Workplace Slips & Falls

Workplace slip and fall claims arise when an employer fails to maintain safe working conditions, causing an employee to slip, trip, or fall. These claims overlap with general workplace injury claims but focus specifically on floor conditions, walkways, and access routes.

Employers have duties under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 to maintain floors in good condition, keep walkways clear, provide adequate lighting, and ensure proper drainage. Risk assessments must identify slip and trip hazards. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) publishes specific guidance on preventing slips and trips at work.

Common workplace slip hazards include wet or oily floors (kitchens, factories), uneven surfaces, trailing cables, poor lighting on stairs, ice in car parks, and cluttered walkways. Employers must provide appropriate footwear where slip risks exist and ensure cleaning regimes are adequate.

All employers must have employers' liability insurance, so there is always an insurer to pay compensation. Compensation ranges from £5,000 to £15,000 for minor injuries, £15,000 to £50,000 for moderate injuries, and £50,000 to £500,000 for serious injuries such as spinal fractures from falls down stairs. The limitation period is 3 years.