Why this matters
Slips, trips and falls on the same level account for around 30% of all reported UK workplace injuries. Most are preventable through housekeeping. Good housekeeping also signals to main contractors that the supplier knows what they are doing - which translates to repeat work.
Key hazards and controls
Hazard 1: Trip hazards from materials and tools left out
Control: Clear-as-you-go culture. Designated material storage areas. End-of-shift sweeps
Hazard 2: Slip hazards from spills and wet surfaces
Control: Spill response procedure. Anti-slip surfaces in wet areas. Hi-vis spill containment kits
Hazard 3: Cuts from exposed nails, screws and metal edges
Control: Bend nails over immediately. Cap exposed metal. Skip protocols for sharp waste
Hazard 4: Fire from accumulated waste
Control: Daily waste removal. Combustible separation. No flame near skips
Hazard 5: Theft and security from accessible materials
Control: Secure storage compounds. Site fencing. Out-of-hours security
Key messages
- 1.Clean as you go - don't leave it for the end of the shift
- 2.Bend over nails the moment you remove them
- 3.Materials live in designated areas, not where you happen to be working
- 4.Spills get cleaned up immediately, not 'later'
- 5.End of shift includes a 5-minute housekeeping sweep
Signs of trouble (for supervisors)
Things to spot during site walks that suggest the message has not landed:
- !Tools and materials scattered across walkways
- !Empty packaging accumulating in work areas
- !Sharp edges, nails or metal exposed in walkways
- !Liquid spills not addressed
- !Skips overflowing or full of mixed waste
Questions to ask workers
Use these in your daily walkrounds and toolbox talks:
- Q.When did you last sweep your work area?
- Q.Where do nails and sharp waste go?
- Q.What is your spill procedure?
- Q.Is your tool storage tidy at the end of every shift?
- Q.Where is the rubbish skip?
UK legislation
- SSConstruction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
- SSHealth and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
- SSWorkplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
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