Falls in the workplace: obligations and measures to comply with!

Every year, falls in the workplace cause a large number of work stoppages due to occupational accidents. Falls occur in all business sectors, but mainly in construction and industry. These accidents have consequences not only for the victim, but also for the employer and the company. Preventing this risk is therefore an obligation, to ensure the safety of personnel even in dangerous situations.

How can we prevent the risk of falls? What are the obligations for each company? What protective measures and equipment need to be put in place? NeoSol, specialists in the sale of preventive matting, answers your questions.

Falls at : an underestimated risk

Even today, falls in the workplace are far too common. They can be caused by slips, trips, stair treads, awkward tools or objects on the floor, falls on the same level and many other situations. Some can cause minor damage, but others can be fatal if the fall is serious. Falls from heights, for example, are the^2nd leading cause of death in the workplace (source: Amélie).

Beyond the physical risk, falls also entail financial risks. Indeed, a person who has been the victim of a slip in the workplace is forced to take sick leave. In 2018, Amélie recorded 99,000 work stoppages linked to falls, representing 9 million days of absence. This figure is constantly rising and will continue to do so unless preventive measures are put in place in every sector of activity.

Many companies still underestimate the risk of falls on their premises. No-one is safe from a bad fall, whether employees or visitors. That's why it's essential to assess each location to measure the risk of falls, and to put in place measures to prevent them.

Obligations and measures to prevent the risk of falls

Every company is obliged to implement protective measures to prevent slips, falls and other workplace accidents. Indeed, the prevention of falls from height is enshrined in the French Labor Code: article L. 4121-1. Every employer has a duty to take all necessary measures to protect the physical and mental health of every employee.

The study, analysis and assessment of risks for each workstation is an obligation for every employer. This study forms part of the assessment of professional risks and the single risk assessment document. By being aware of the risks involved, you can anticipate potential accidents by implementing preventive measures.

Anti-slip mats: the NeoSol solution

With the aim of providing a solution for every risk situation encountered in the workplace, NeoSol is committed to offering several models of professional floor covering. Indeed, professional floor mats are part of the PPE (personal protective equipment) that ensures employee comfort and safety.

In this situation, the most suitable mats are :

- Anti-slip mats:

This preventive mat has been designed to solve a number of problems encountered by professionals. It is called anti-slip because its primary function is to reduce slips and falls. Its technology enables it to adhere easily to the floor while removing dirt and drying soles. The anti-slip mat also absorbs moisture and dust to remove the risk of accidents.

- Self-adhesive marking tape:

There's another effective solution to prevent the risk of falls. These are self-adhesive marking strips that are easily stuck to the floor. In addition to warning of a possible hazard, such as stairs or a high step, they also warn of the presence of an obstacle for visually impaired people. Their bright colors make them easy to see, preparing staff or visitors to negotiate an obstacle.

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See also: How to prevent the risk of slipping with an anti-slip mat?