According to the HSE, there were 119 000 reported cases of work-related slips, trips and falls last year. Slips happen when there isn’t enough traction between the footwear and walking surface, whereas trips happen when the foot gets caught in an object, causing the loss of balance. The types of injuries in non-fatal stair accidents are bruises, bone fractures and sprains. Stair safety can help reduce these risks by reviewing a few practices!
If slips and trips in the stairway are common in your workplace, review the stair design first and foremost. Ensure that the stair width is adequate for public and assembly stairs, and is greater than 1800mm. For guidelines on UK Building Regulations, view the 2013 edition.
Slipping is main cause of stair falls, from either the lack of underfoot grip, weather hazards or the presence of slippery objects such as loose rugs. Most falls occur when people walk down stairs, as it is more difficult to gain one’s balance back when descending stairs and the distance to fall is much greater. Another cause for most stair accidents is unexpected location of staircases, for example two or three step staircases in hallways.
Accidents on the staircase can have two causes: Conditions and Actions.
Conditions could be how well the staircase is built, the presence of handrails, adequate lighting, etc.; while Actions could be running down the stairs, carrying heavy objects or reading. There are ways to make the stairs at work more safe for everyone, listed below.
Address Conditions of Stairs
- Install handrails that extend slightly longer than the length of the staircase, even for short staircases. It’s always better to have handrails on each side for added safety. Prioritise round-shaped rails to ensure stronger hand grips.
- Ensure that the surface of the staircase is non-slippery and made of rubber, metal or protected by Slip-Resistant Paint.
- Paint the edges of the stairs in a visible colour for a more permanent solution. Optionally, use Tape for a temporary solution. For external staircases, add Stair Noses or Stair Treads. Make sure that the edges are matte to avoid glares.
- Install plain rather than distracting patterned carpets to ensure that the edges are clearly visible.
- Make sure that the stairs are well-lit by angular lighting for perceptual depth. Invest in motion-activated lights to reduce energy consumption or install light switches at both ends of the staircase.
Address Behaviour on Stairs
- Wear shoes that fit properly and have a non-slip sole
- Concentrate on the stairs, do not read or converse while climbing or descending stairs. Try to not take your eyes off where you are going.
- No running on the staircase, and take only one step at a time. Take your time and make sure that you have sure footing with every step.
- Get help if you are carrying one or several objects. Always have one hand free to hold the handrails and remember that two safe trips are better than one unsafe trip.
- Do not obstruct landings or staircases with objects. If you plan to install a cupboard on the landing, follow the HSE guidelines.
- Do not place loose rugs at the top or bottom of staircases that can cause slips or trips.
Address Housekeeping
- Immediately clean spills, wet spots or debris off stairs. Keep cleaning equipment available on all levels of the building to ensure that you don’t have to go through a dangerous staircase to get to the equipment.
- Report broken or malfunctioning lights and repair them immediately.
- Replace frayed, loose or worn carpet and tiles. Or if these cannot be repaired immediately, ensure that there are signs or barriers to ward others off.
Most importantly, actively promote stair safety by talking about it with your colleagues whenever you notice an unsafe practice. To view our range of Flooring or Floor Tape and Paints, visit us at Matting Direct2U. We offer discounts on large orders and free delivery to UK Mainland as a standard. Chat with us today for a quotation!