Slips and trips are among the most common types of accidents at work. They can happen suddenly and often result from everyday working conditions that have not been properly managed or maintained.

In a workplace setting, slips and trips are often caused by hazards that should reasonably have been identified and addressed. Injuries can range from soft‑tissue damage to fractures or more serious harm, particularly where falls occur from height or onto hard surfaces.

If you were injured in a slip or trip accident at work and the incident was caused by unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

How workplace slip and trip accidents happen

Workplace slip and trip accidents often arise where risks are overlooked or control measures are not put in place. Common causes include:

• Wet or recently cleaned floors without adequate warning signs
• Spills that are not promptly dealt with
• Uneven flooring, loose tiles or damaged surfaces
• Trailing cables, obstructed walkways or poor housekeeping
• Inadequate lighting in work areas, stairwells or corridors
• Failure to provide suitable flooring for the working environment

These types of hazards can arise in a wide range of workplaces, including offices, shops, warehouses, factories, construction sites and hospitality settings.

Employers’ responsibilities for preventing slips and trips

Employers have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to keep employees safe at work. This includes assessing risks, maintaining safe premises and putting appropriate systems in place to reduce the likelihood of slip and trip accidents.

Where an employer fails to meet these duties and an employee is injured as a result, a personal injury claim may be possible.

Workplace slip and trip claims do not depend on the accident being dramatic or unusual. Many claims arise from ordinary working conditions that have not been properly managed.

Claiming compensation for a slip or trip at work

If you were injured in a workplace slip or trip and your employer’s negligence contributed to the accident, you may be able to claim compensation.

A workplace slip and trip claim can take into account:

• Physical injury and pain
• Time off work or loss of earnings
• The impact of the injury on day‑to‑day activities
• Ongoing treatment or rehabilitation needs

Every claim depends on the specific circumstances of the accident and the evidence available.

How our workplace accident solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury team regularly advises on workplace slip and trip claims and other accidents at work.

We can:

• Review how the accident occurred
• Assess whether your employer may be legally responsible
• Gather evidence to support your claim
• Arrange medical evidence where needed
• Advise on funding options, including no win no fee arrangements and Legal Expenses Insurance, where available

What happens first?

Your first step is a confidential, no‑obligation conversation with one of our solicitors.

We will listen to what happened, explain whether a workplace slip or trip claim may be possible, and talk you through what the next steps would look like if you decide to proceed.

There is no pressure to move forward, and any discussion can take place at a pace that feels right for you.

Time limits for workplace slip and trip claims

Accidents at work are subject to time limits. In most cases, a claim must be started within three years of the date of the accident.

Because evidence such as accident reports, CCTV footage and witness accounts can be important in slip and trip claims, it is often helpful to seek advice as early as possible.

Workplace slip and trip claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim if I slipped or tripped at work but wasn’t seriously injured?
You may still be able to claim if the accident was caused by unsafe conditions and resulted in injury. Each case depends on its circumstances.

What if the accident was partly my fault?
It may still be possible to claim compensation, although any award could be reduced if responsibility is shared.

Is a workplace slip or trip different from a public slip or trip claim?
Yes. Workplace slip and trip claims focus on an employer’s duties to employees, whereas public slip and trip claims usually involve occupiers or local authorities.

Speak to us about a workplace slip and trip claim

If you have been injured in a slip or trip accident at work, we understand how disruptive this can be.

An initial conversation can help you understand your position and what options may be available, with no obligation to proceed.

Contact our Personal Injury team on 01689 887887 to discuss a workplace slip and trip claim in confidence.