Toolbox talk · General site safety · about 5 minutes
Slips, trips and housekeeping
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
Why it matters
Slips and trips are the most common cause of injury on site. Most are easy to prevent with good housekeeping.
The hazards
- Trailing cables and hoses
- Materials and waste left on walkways
- Wet, muddy or icy surfaces
- Uneven ground and holes
- Poor lighting on stairs and routes
Stay safe
- Keep walkways and stairs clear at all times
- Clear up as you go and use the skips provided
- Lift cables and leads off the floor with hangers
- Clean up spills straight away and report them
- Cover or barrier holes and uneven ground
- Make sure routes and stairwells are well lit
- Wear footwear with good grip
Ask the team
- Where are the worst trip hazards on site right now?
- What do you do with waste at the end of a task?
- How can we get cables off the floor here?
The law and guidance
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. HSE HSG150, Health and safety in construction.
General guidance to help you give a toolbox talk. It doesn't replace your site's risk assessments, method statements, permits or training. Check it against your own site rules before you give it.

