Falls and trips in construction - Good order

It is not acceptable for corridors and stairwells to be obstructed with materials, footpaths to be uneven, cables to be strewn across walkways or for steps into site cabins to be poorly constructed.

What inspectors look for

We look to make sure that sites are properly organised, with waste streams managed, so that walkways are kept clear of unnecessary obstructions which could cause a trip injury.

Principal contractors should consider how they will manage the site to ensure that it is kept in good order by:

• Segregating traffic routes from pedestrian routes.
• Managing the procurement of materials to ensure that only the minimum amount of materials are stored on site at any time.
• Ensuring that everyone working on the site is aware of the site policy for managing the movement and storage of materials around the site, and the removal of waste from work areas.

Everyone on site including workers needs to play their part by:

• Keeping walkways and stairs clear and free from obstructions
• Ensuring that footpaths are firm & level, stoned up if necessary, and gritted if icy
• Keeping work areas as clear as possible of unnecessary materials and waste
• Storing materials safely, whether in the site compound or around the site
• Complying with the site arrangements for the removal of waste
• Reporting good order problems to site management

Remember: see it, sort it.