According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), of all accidents in educational settings are caused by a slip or trip, with nearly two thousand recorded last year. Craig McLaughlin from RSA Insurance has given us some of his top tips for preventing slips, trips and falls in and around your setting.
RSA data shows that personal injury claims related to slips, trips, or falls increase during the winter months. These incidents do tend to go hand in hand with the time, hassle and upset associated with any injury claim.
RSA data also reveals that slip, trip, and fall claims can result in civil and/or legal action. There is also the threat of reputational harm for your setting, along with the potential for fines and prosecution, which shouldn’t be underestimated.
Slips and trips present a different challenge, especially when it comes to the safety of children. The constant movement of children make them more prone to falls, even without the additional hazards of water, ice, or snow. Their tendency to run around and not pay close attention increases the likelihood of accidents.
This extra risk extends beyond children to include all visitors. Vulnerable groups, such as grandparents and individuals with limited mobility, should be considered. Similarly, those carrying younger children may find it more difficult to maintain balance. Addressing the safety concerns is crucial for ensuring the wellbeing of anyone who comes through the gates to your setting.
Six things you should have on your to do list:
- Flooring selections and maintenance: Choose winter-appropriate flooring materials. Regularly inspect and maintain them and document this process as evidence of having done so.
- Use non-slip measures: Place non-slip mats in high-risk areas and put in place regular cleaning schedules. Display warning signs throughout potentially slippery areas. This includes kitchens, canteen/refectory areas, toilets and outside play areas. Pay particular attention to wooden or decked areas and those with increased footfall.Outside your setting, address slip risks from fallen leaves that become wet or have started to decay. They can hide any hazard that may be on the path or they themselves create a slip risk
- Walkway planning: Well-considered walkways play a crucial role in preventing accidents. Encourage children to pay attention. Minimise possible distractions (by ensuring full supervision). Clear routes and shortcuts of obstructions. Outside, clear snow, ice, and fallen leaves regularly to prevent slip hazards. Pay particular attention to drains and grates which become slippery when wet, especially when covered in moss. These can be difficult to see in darker mornings and evenings. Regularly monitor the weather forecasts; bad weather may be on the way so you can be prepared for it.
- Clear signage and visibility: A lack of warning signs for wet floors or potential hazards increases risk. Use clear signage and markings to indicate safe pathways both inside and outside the premises. Anticipate areas that could be a higher risk (like slopes and grassy areas). Ensure outdoor areas are well-lit with clear signage to draw attention to potential dangers
- Education and awareness: Educate children about potential hazards. Establish a culture of safety among faculty and staff. Carry out external safety reviews and use temporary walkways with handrails where necessary. Encourage all members of your community to look out for hazards. Ask yourself: can anything be found on the paths or steps, including fire escapes that could cause an accident?
- Risk mapping: Implement risk mapping for both internal and external areas. Models from organisations like the HSE can prove helpful. Using a mapped-out diagram of your site, mark all slips and trips reported in the past 12 months (or relevant period) with crosses. Engage with staff, parents and visitors to identify any near misses, and incorporate them into the diagram. Decide what action needs to be taken and implement that action – and importantly, continue to monitor it to ensure control measures put in place are working.
Most importantly, a proactive approach is essential to keep your setting safe from winter slips, trips, and falls.
By:
- implementing a safety plan,
- raising awareness, and
- employing documented preventative control measures
... you can create an environment where young children can thrive, and ensure that preventing slips, trips and falls isn't just another checkbox.
For more guidance on:
- spotting hazards
- assessing flooring
- mapping and assessment tools
please visit the .