It’s the little things – like not using designated access points – that caused some serious slips, trips and falls last year. Don’t risk a short cut –

It’s the little things – like not using designatedaccess points – that caused some serious slips,trips and falls last year. Don’t risk a short cut –it could lead you straight to hospital.

• Accidents can and do happen on a job

• In 2009/10 we recorded 622 slips, trips and falls, many due to taking unnecessary short cuts

• Short cuts can lead to short lives382 in Infrastructure Maintenance and 240 in Investment Projects and Asset Management

Result:

Badly bruised shoulder and collarbone

Prevention:

• Make use of the safe pedestrian access points provided to avoid accidents with vehicles

• Be aware of your surroundings and any dangers at all times

Cause:

• Trying to save time by not using an Approved Access Point for staff on foot

• Lack of care and attention when in the same vicinity as vehicles

Prevention:

• Always carry a suitable load

• Use the handrails provided on all stairs

• Keep walkways clear

• Spread the load between your workmates or make further trips

Result:

Shoulder and neck sprain, and pulled trapezius muscle

Cause:

• Rushing the job and then falling

• Carrying too much heavy equipment on back and in hands when using access steps

Prevention:

• Use appropriate and/or additional lighting when necessary

• Stay alert, even in familiar surroundings

• Think about your actions and where you leave kit, and how this might affect others

Result:

Top half of fourth finger amputated, head injuries and a bruised shoulder

Cause:

• Heading out to a job without suitable site or personal lighting

• Falling on mechanical equipment left by others

• Use the Approved Access Points provided at site and not short cuts

• Take your time, as rushing causes concentration to lapse and accidents to happen

• Always use the right PPE, tools and equipment for the job