They can also result in other types of serious accidents, such as falls from height and, whilst few are fatal, many are significant and lead to prolonged and in some cases permanent disablement. Compensation payments ordered by courts, fines and other costs can be substantial, whereas the solutions to prevent slips and trips are often simple and cost quite little.
Common causes of slips and trips in the workplace include floors that are uneven, unsuitably covered or wet, steps and slopes, trailing cables, poor lighting and inadequate housekeeping.