Health and Safety
Executive / Commission
Woodworking
In 2003/4, 364 people who work in the woodworking industry were reported to HSE as injured by a slip or a trip, 87 of them seriously.
When a person slips or trips over, people often laugh and the person feels embarassed. But when you tot up the cost in terms of covering for people absent from work, lost production and legal claims, not to mention the suffering and often long term damage to the victim, it is not funny.
Slipping and tripping hazards can be managed just like any other hazard. Simple, cost effective solutions can reduce accidents.
Good housekeeping is important – keep gangways clear, clear off-cuts and clean up dust. These will go a long way to reducing the chance of a serious accident.