It’s the little things – like not using designated access points – that caused some serious slips, trips and falls last year. Don’t risk a short cut – it could lead you straight to hospital.

Accidents can and do happen on a job In 2009/10 we recorded 622 slips, trips and falls, many due to taking unnecessary short cuts Short cuts can lead to short lives 382 in Infrastructure Maintenance and 240 in Investment Projects and Asset Management

Result: Badly bruised shoulder and collarbone Prevention: Make use of the safe pedestrian access points provided to avoid accidents with vehicles Be aware of your surroundings and any dangers at all times Cause: Trying to save time by not using an Approved Access Point for staff on foot Lack of care and attention when in the same vicinity as vehicles

Prevention: Always carry a suitable load Use the handrails provided on all stairs Keep walkways clear Spread the load between your workmates or make further trips Result: Shoulder and neck sprain, and pulled trapezius muscle Cause: Rushing the job and then falling Carrying too much heavy equipment on back and in hands when using access steps

Prevention: Use appropriate and/or additional lighting when necessary Stay alert, even in familiar surroundings Think about your actions and where you leave kit, and how this might affect others Result: Top half of fourth finger amputated, head injuries and a bruised shoulder Cause: Heading out to a job without suitable site or personal lighting Falling on mechanical equipment left by others

Use the Approved Access Points provided at site and not short cuts Take your time, as rushing causes concentration to lapse and accidents to happen Always use the right PPE, tools and equipment for the job