In a recent case (Ellis v Bristol City Council) the Council were prosecuted for failing to have a suitable flooring surface in a care home where pools of urine were frequently occurring.

A number of accidents had occurred on the vinyl floor and the council had a good system of inspection/cleaning/risk assessments/warning notices and two non-slip mats in the worst areas.

There had been three instances of workers slipping and therefore it was held a moderately severe injury was entirely foreseeable.

An employer must not only assess the construction of the floor but any transient substances which lie upon them on a regular basis.

Motor retailers and garages must review their policies on potential slips.

If, for instance, on showroom/toilet floors there is regular rain or water spillage then the flooring may prove to be unsuitable.

On a workshop floor likewise if oil/grease is regularly spilled.

Also don’t forget the problems of icy surfaces in the coming cold whether.

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