Slip Risk Resources
Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common causes of workplace injury, and the majority of incidents link back to simple, fixable issues such as contamination (spills), poor housekeeping, unsuitable flooring, or inconsistent cleaning routines.[1][5] This page brings together practical guidance, checklists and product-focused support to help you reduce slip risk in areas where spills can happen (for example near dyeing machines, wash-down zones, chemical storage, maintenance bays, loading areas and workshops).
Start with the basics that prevent most slip incidents
For quick results, focus on the controls that remove the hazard at source and reduce exposure:
- Clean up spillages immediately and leave floors dry (don’t just spread contamination).[2]
- Use clear, visible warning signage during cleaning and when a surface cannot be dried straight away.[2]
- Improve housekeeping by keeping walkways clear, managing trailing leads/hoses, and removing waste/offcuts promptly.[5]
- Specify and maintain appropriate flooring and consider slip-resistance testing where risk is persistent or high.[3]
- Train and reinforce “see it, sort it, report it” behaviours so small hazards don’t become incidents.[1]
Serpro internal slip risk resources
Use the links below to build a complete slip-risk approach: prevention, signage, flooring choices, inspections and training.
Core guides
- Serpro’s Slip Prevention Guide (practical causes, controls and a checklist)
- Health and Safety (broader workplace safety context)
- Best Practice Guidelines (operational improvements that reduce incidents)
Signage and visibility
- Wet Floor Signage (where to place signs and how to use them effectively)
Flooring and surface controls
- Anti-slip flooring materials (selection considerations and use-cases)
- Slip-resistant materials (surface treatments and risk reduction options)
Systems that keep standards consistent
- Regular inspections (spotting issues early and creating accountability)
- Spill training (improving response speed and safe clean-up habits)
Practical solutions for spill-prone areas
Slip prevention improves dramatically when spill control is designed into the workplace. These product areas are often used alongside training and signage:
- Oil and Fuel Spill Kits (for maintenance zones where oils and hydrocarbons are common)
- Spill Control (containment and control tools to reduce spread and exposure)
- Drip and Spill Trays (prevention at source under plant, dosing points and containers)
External guidance and tools
For authoritative UK guidance on assessing and controlling slip risk, these resources are a strong reference point for risk assessments, procedures and training materials:
- HSE: Slips and trips (overview, roles, case studies and resources)[4]
- HSE INDG225: Preventing slips and trips at work (brief guide and controls)[1]
- HSE: Cleaning and wet floors (timing, methods and signage reminders)[2]
- HSE GEIS2: Assessing the slip resistance of flooring (interpreting test data and approaches)[3]
- RoSPA: Slips, trips and falls at work (risk assessment steps and prevention approach)[6]
Need help reducing slip risk in a specific area?
If you tell us what liquid is involved (for example dyes, oils, coolants, detergents or chemicals), the floor type, and whether the area is pedestrian-only or includes traffic, we can point you to suitable controls and resources.
Contact Serpro to discuss your slip risk reduction plan.