1. Falls from height

Falls from height are one of the most common causes of serious injuries and fatalities in the workplace. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reports that there were 128 fatal accidents involving falls from height in Great Britain in 2017/18.

To prevent falls, employers should provide safe access to all work areas and ensure that employees are properly trained in how to safely use ladders, scaffolding, and other equipment. Employees should also be aware of the risks of working at height and take precautions to prevent falls.

2. Slips, trips and falls

Slips, trips and falls are another leading cause of workplace accidents. The HSE reports that there were 447,000 non-fatal injuries caused by slips, trips and falls in Great Britain in 2017/18.

To prevent slips, trips and falls, employers should ensure that floors are clean and dry, and that any spills are cleaned up immediately. Employers should also provide employees with proper footwear and training on how to safely walk in the workplace.

3. Manual handling

Manual handling is one of the most common causes of musculoskeletal injuries in the workplace. The HSE reports that there were 431,000 non-fatal injuries caused by manual handling in Great Britain in 2017/18.

To prevent manual handling injuries, employers should assess the risks of all manual handling tasks and put controls in place to reduce the risks. Employers should also provide employees with training on how to safely lift, carry and move objects.

4. Working with machinery

Working with machinery can be dangerous if it is not properly used or maintained. The HSE reports that there were 8 fatal accidents involving machinery in Great Britain in 2017/18.

To prevent accidents involving machinery, employers should ensure that all machinery is properly maintained and that employees are trained in how to safely use it. Employers should also conduct regular risk assessments of all work activities involving machinery.

5. Exposure to hazardous substances

Exposure to hazardous substances can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory illnesses, skin disorders and cancer. The HSE reports that there were 3,000 cases of work-related ill health caused by exposure to hazardous substances in Great Britain in 2017/18.

To prevent exposure to hazardous substances, employers should assess the risks of all work activities that involve exposure to hazardous substances. Employers should also put controls in place to reduce the risks, such as using ventilation or providing personal protective equipment. Employees should also be properly trained in how to safely work with hazardous substances.