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UK News - Breaking news in the field of health and safety
Reducing slips and trips accidents from floor cleaning
Free HSE event for West Midlands businesses in Walsall on 12 September
Slips and trips are the most common cause of injuries at work and floor cleaning is a significant factor in causing slips and trips, both to cleaning staff and to others. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) aims to raise awareness of this by encouraging cleaning businesses to attend a free safety event on Tuesday 12 September 2006 in Walsall.
Roger Monaghan, HSE principal inspector said:
"Each year about 11,000 major injuries are caused by slipping and tripping and 90% of major slips result in broken bones. Cleaning has been identified as a significant factor in accidents, as the process itself can present slip and trip hazards to those walking in the area being cleaned. For example, smooth floors left damp by a mop may be extremely slippery, and trailing wires from a vacuum cleaner or buffing machine can present a trip hazard. HSE and the Local Authorities are aiming to raise awareness on the dangers of incorrect floor cleaning regimes through this event.
Roger continued:
"Small businesses can sometimes miss out on health and safety information and developments in best practice. They can find training expensive and difficult to arrange. If you run a small company and would like up to date advice to help you get to grips with health and safety, this free event is a must."
During the half-day, areas of greatest risk will be highlighted in a practical way combining he latest information on a variety of topics including:
* The importance of floor cleaning
* What can be done to prevent slips and trips
* Contamination control
* Dermatitis
* Manual handling
* Low falls
