04 Sep Slips, Trips & Liability – Safer Surfaces With 19PFM
When we think about health and safety, our minds often go straight inside the building. Fire exits, warning signs, lighting, and hazards are all checked. But what about outside?
The exterior of a commercial property is where staff, visitors, and customers take their first steps. If these areas are not maintained, accidents can happen, potentially resulting in injuries, legal claims, and damage to a business’s reputation. The key thing to keep in mind here is that all of this can be avoided.
Slips and Trips Are Common Causes of Workplace Injuries
Slips and trips remain the most common cause of workplace injuries in the UK. HSE data shows they account for around a third of all non-fatal incidents each year. Car parks, walkways, and entrances are hotspots. Algae, moss, and oil build-ups make surfaces treacherous. Wet weather and frost only increase the risks.
For businesses, this is more than a safety issue. It’s a financial one too. Claims, higher insurance costs, and possible HSE enforcement can all follow.
Regular exterior cleaning is one of the simplest ways to reduce these risks. Pressure washing removes moss and algae before they become slip hazards. Car park cleaning tackles oil and grease. Clear walkways mean safer access for everyone. Clean surfaces also improve visibility and make signage easier to see.
What Does The Law Say?
UK law makes these duties clear. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 requires employers to protect employees and visitors. The Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 also applies. If someone slips on your premises due to poor maintenance, liability may fall on your business.
What Are The Benefits of Regular Cleaning
Routine exterior cleaning shows that you are taking reasonable steps to prevent accidents. This matters when incidents are investigated. It also protects your assets and your reputation.
The benefits don’t stop with compliance. Clean exteriors create a professional first impression. They extend the life of surfaces and reduce costly repairs. They also support employee wellbeing by providing a safer, cleaner environment.
Our Exterior Cleaning Services Can Help Protect Businesses and the Public.
Small accidents can have big consequences. A proactive cleaning schedule reduces risk, protects people, and demonstrates your commitment to safety. It’s an investment in both compliance and confidence.
If you’d like to learn how routine exterior cleaning can support your health and safety strategy, our team is here to help. Get in touch with us to discuss your requirements and we will help you find a solution.
