Slips, Trips and Falls
In the hairdressing industry factors that may cause slips, trips or falls include:
slippery surfaces (e.g. unswept hair, surfaces that are wet, polished or oily);
the surface texture of the floor is unsuitable;
foot-wear is not suitable and does not provide enough tread;
moving from one surface to another and changing floor levels;
equipment, tool trolleys and rubbish left in the way;
steps and ladders used incorrectly;
loose clothing caught on furniture or appliances;
lighting is not bright enough;
exposure to some chemical substances; and
being hit by a moving or falling object.
 | | Hair should be regularly swept up, spills cleaned up and trolleys care taken that trolleys and other equipment is not left in walk areas. |
It is important that you wear appropriate footwear in the hairdressing industry. Low heeled comfortable shoes with closed toes and rubber soles reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls and back strain. You should check the condition of your shoes. Accidents may happen because your shoes are worn or there is no tread left on the bottom of your shoes.
Your employer should provide a suitable non slip floor surface and good lighting. In some workplaces floor surfaces can be chemically treated to increase traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
