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Food industry slipping accidents increase
12 December 2006
Despite the continued improvement in accident rates in the industry, HSE warns that major injuries from slipping and tripping are on the increase.
Major injuries (broken arms etc) caused by slips and trips in food manufacture increased by 9% from 397 major injuries in 2004/05 to 433 injuries in 2005/06. This reverses the trend of earlier years which showed major injuries from slips and trips declining. The upward turn in slips major injuries occured despite an overall reduction in major injuries from other causes such as machinery, handling and falls from height. Over the last fifteen years the 'Recipe for Safety' campaign by HSE, employers and unions has been driving the injury rates down - click here for details.
As a result of the unexpected increase, the HSE is calling on employers to 'Look again at their slips and trips prevention risk assessments, and check actions from these assessments have been carried out. Consultation with workers and worker representatives is essential to ensure all information is captured.' HSE also point out that practical experience shows that the slips major injury rate in companies can be halved if appropriate action is taken.
There is a lot of HSE guidance on slips and trips in food manufacture on their website.
Usdaw safety reps should use the union's risk-mapping tool to help tackle the problem. Reps who need help with using the tool or who want printed copies should contact the Health and Safety section in Central Office.
Contact Details
Health and Safety section
Ph: 0161 249 2441
Fax: 0161 249 2475
Email: healthandsafety@usdaw.org.uk
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