How to Reduce the Risk of Falls in Your Workplace

How to Reduce the Risk of Falls in Your Workplace

Employers’ liability insurance is mandatory in the UK, and nowhere is this more justified than in the building industry. As many as 64,000 non-fatal injuries took place in the construction sector between 2016 and 2017, according to figures from the Health and Safety Executive, with trips and falls accounting for 42 percent of the reported injuries. 

While investing in quality employers’ liability insurance is critical for protecting your business in the event of an accident, taking a preventative approach can help minimise the chances of a fall happening in the first place. We’ve rounded up four easy ways you can instantly reduce the risk of falls in your workplace: 

1. Ensure Your Platform is Secure 

One of the most important things you can do to keep you and your employees safe when operating at height is to ensure your working platform is stable and secure. Only use scaffolding that has been properly erected and use guardrails and toeboards to provide extra protection along the edges. In addition, be sure that those using cherry pickers and other powered equipment have been trained to do safely. 

2. Always Work to the Elements 

Taking a proactive approach to safety is vital for managing hazards in the workplace, but there’s one factor that’s always going to be beyond your control: the weather. With this in mind, it’s vital that you’re mindful of the elements when working at height outdoors and don’t be afraid to pause the work if weather conditions are poor. Attempting to work through high winds, precipitation and snow might have you reaching for your builders’ insurance policy. 

3. Ensure Employees Know How to Use Ladders Safely 

Ladders can be very hazardous and are commonly involved in employers’ liability insurance claims. To protect both your workers and your company, take the time to verify that your employees know how to safely use a ladder according to the working environment. This might involve training workers on how to best angle and secure ladders to prevent them slipping, avoiding the use of ladders unless there’s no other alternative and discouraging overreaching. Keeping your ladders regularly maintained and in good condition can also do wonders for reducing the risk of a fall. 

4. Being Mindful of the Risks 

It’s easy to get complacent when you’re surrounded by the same risks every day. Try to avoid this by being mindful of the risks in your working environment and actively identifying the hazards that may contribute to an injury or illness. Being conscious of the dangers and knowing how to control the risks is key to keeping your site a safe place to work. 

Are you looking for the best employers’ liability insurance provider in the UK? Here at OnSite Insurance, we’re proud to provide a range of industry leading construction insurance solutions that are designed to help protect employers and employees alike. For more information, give us a call today on 01902 324 194 to discuss your options.