Slips and trips at work

Workplaces should be safe environments, yet slips and trips remain one of the most common causes of accidents across the UK. From offices and warehouses to construction sites and retail outlets, hazards can appear in almost any setting. While some incidents cause only minor injuries, others lead to lasting problems that affect health, employment, and daily life.

At Marley Solicitors, we regularly help clients who have been injured by slips and trips at work. Our team provides clear legal guidance, ensures strong claims are built on evidence, and pursues fair compensation for those affected.

The most common causes of slips and trips at work are as follows:

Accidents often occur because employers or staff fail to follow basic safety measures. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Wet or slippery floors that are not cleaned or signposted quickly
• Loose mats, rugs, or uneven floor coverings
• Cables and wires left trailing across walkways
• Poor lighting that makes hazards difficult to see
• Cluttered work areas or obstacles in corridors
• Defective flooring, broken tiles, or damaged steps

Employers have a legal duty to reduce these risks and to provide staff with a safe environment. When they fall short, employees are placed at unnecessary risk.

Typical injuries from slips and trips

The injuries caused by slips and trips at work vary from mild to severe. Some resolve in days, while others require long-term medical care. Common examples include:

• Fractures and broken bones, especially wrists, arms, or hips
• Sprains and ligament injuries in ankles and knees
• Back and spinal injuries caused by awkward falls
• Head injuries, including concussion or more serious trauma
• Cuts and bruises from sharp objects or rough surfaces

These injuries may lead to time off work, financial pressure, and a reduced ability to carry out normal activities.

Employer duty of care

UK law requires employers to take reasonable steps to protect employees from foreseeable risks. This duty of care includes:

• Carrying out regular risk assessments of the workplace
• Keeping floors, corridors, and work areas clear of hazards
• Providing adequate lighting and signage
• Repairing damaged flooring or stairs promptly
• Ensuring cleaning routines do not create new risks
• Training staff to recognise and address hazards

When an employer fails in these duties, and an accident occurs, the injured employee may have grounds to make a claim.

Proving liability in workplace accident claims

Demonstrating responsibility is key to any claim for slips and trips at work. Evidence helps establish what went wrong and who was at fault. Useful forms of evidence include:

• Photographs of the hazard and surrounding area
• CCTV footage, if available
• Accident book entries completed at the time
• Witness statements from colleagues
• Medical reports detailing the injury

At Marley Solicitors, we guide clients through collecting and presenting evidence, ensuring that each claim is supported with strong documentation.

Compensation for slips and trips at work

Compensation aims to reflect both the immediate and long-term impact of an injury. The amount awarded depends on the severity of the accident and the losses experienced. Typical elements of compensation include:

• General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life
• Special damages cover expenses such as medical treatment or travel costs
• Loss of earnings during recovery
• Future losses if the injury reduces long-term work capacity
• Rehabilitation or care costs where necessary

Every case is unique, so tailored legal advice is essential. Our role is to ensure claims fully reflect the harm caused.

Time limits for making a workplace accident claim

In most cases, employees have three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. In some situations, the three-year period runs from the date the injury was first linked to the accident. For workers under 18, the three-year limit begins on their 18th birthday.

It is best to seek advice as soon as possible. Acting quickly means evidence is more reliable, witnesses are easier to trace, and the legal process can start without delay.

What to do after a slip or trip at work

Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can protect both your health and your ability to make a successful claim:

1. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries, and ensure treatment is recorded.
2. Report the accident to your employer and confirm it is logged in the accident book.
3. Gather evidence, including photos of the hazard and details of witnesses.
4. Keep receipts for any expenses linked to the accident, such as taxis or prescriptions.
5. Contact a solicitor to assess your case and explain your options.

These actions create a clear record of events and support a strong legal claim if you decide to proceed.

No win no fee claims for slips and trips at work

Cost is a common concern for employees considering legal action. At Marley Solicitors, many workplace accident cases are handled on a no win no fee basis. This means you do not pay legal fees if your claim is unsuccessful.

A no win no fee arrangement reduces financial risk and ensures that valid claims can be pursued by anyone, regardless of income.

How Marley Solicitors can help

Our solicitors have extensive experience in handling workplace accident claims. We understand how disruptive an injury can be, and we aim to make the claims process straightforward and supportive.

By choosing Marley Solicitors, you can expect:

• Clear advice about whether you have a strong claim
• Support in gathering the right evidence
• Skilled negotiation with insurers and employers
• Court representation if required

We are committed to ensuring injured employees receive fair compensation and are able to move forward with their recovery.

Final thoughts

Slips and trips at work may sound minor, but the injuries they cause can be serious and long lasting. Employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment, and when they fail, employees have the right to seek compensation.

At Marley Solicitors, we are here to support anyone affected by workplace accidents. From initial advice through to settlement, our team is committed to achieving the best outcome for every client. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step towards justice