Slips Trips and Falls Prevention

Why Slips, Trips, and Falls Prevention is a Top Priority for Singapore Businesses

​In the fast-paced world of business, it's easy to overlook a simple puddle, an untidy wire, or a cluttered walkway. But in Singapore, these seemingly minor hazards are a significant cause of workplace accidents. Beyond the obvious risk to employee well-being, neglecting slips, trips, and falls (STFs) prevention can have severe financial and legal consequences for your business.

​This is not just a matter of good practice; it's a legal and moral obligation that the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) takes very seriously. Let's delve into why every business in Singapore must make STF prevention a top priority.

​The Sobering Statistics from MOM's 2024 Report

​The latest Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) statistics from the Ministry of Manpower paint a clear picture. While Singapore's overall major injury rate saw a welcome improvement in 2024, the fight is far from over.

​According to the  slips, trips, and falls were one of the top causes of major injuries, accounting for a significant portion of all reported workplace incidents. These are not just minor bumps and bruises; they often result in serious, life-altering injuries such as fractures, sprains, and even head trauma.

​The data underscores a critical point: while many high-risk industries like construction and manufacturing are showing improvements, the danger of STFs is universal. It can affect any workplace, from an office pantry to a warehouse floor. This is a risk that knows no industry boundaries, and it demands constant vigilance from all employers and employees.

​The Legal Imperative: What Singapore's Law Demands

​Beyond the moral responsibility to protect your workers, Singapore's legal framework makes STF prevention a non-negotiable requirement. The cornerstone of this is the Workplace Safety and Health Act (WSHA).

​The WSHA places a clear duty on employers and occupiers of workplaces to ensure the safety and health of everyone at work, as far as it is "reasonably practicable." This includes taking proactive steps to control the risk of slips, trips, and falls.

​Specifically, businesses must align with key legal requirements and subsidiary regulations, including:

• ​Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations: This is the foundation of a safe workplace. It mandates that every employer and self-employed person must conduct a comprehensive Risk Assessment for all work activities. This means actively identifying potential STF hazards, evaluating the risks, and implementing control measures to mitigate them. A risk assessment for a simple office might identify wet floors near a water dispenser, while a warehouse assessment would focus on cluttered walkways and uneven surfaces.

• ​WSH (General Provisions) Regulations: These regulations provide specific guidelines on maintaining a safe and healthy environment. This includes ensuring floors, stairs, and passages are kept free of obstructions and are well-maintained. It also covers the provision of proper lighting and clear signage to highlight potential hazards.

• ​WSH (Work at Heights) Regulations: While this might seem separate, many falls are from a height, even a short one. The regulations require employers to ensure that work at height is properly planned, supervised, and carried out safely, with the necessary protective equipment and controls in place.

​Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and even imprisonment. The MOM conducts regular, targeted inspections, and they are quick to take action against companies that do not meet their WSH obligations.

​The Business Case for Prevention

​Investing in STF prevention isn't a cost—it's a strategic investment in your business's future. The benefits are far-reaching:

• ​Reduced Costs: Fewer accidents mean reduced medical leave, lower insurance premiums, and no legal fines or penalties.

• ​Increased Productivity: A safe working environment leads to a more confident and productive workforce. When employees feel safe, they can focus on their tasks without fear of injury.

• ​Enhanced Reputation: A strong safety culture attracts and retains talent. It shows that you are an employer who genuinely cares for your people, building trust and a positive brand image.

​Slips, trips, and falls are not just unfortunate accidents; they are preventable incidents that can be effectively managed through a strong WSH culture. By aligning with MOM's legal requirements and prioritizing a proactive approach to safety, Singaporean businesses can ensure a healthier, safer, and more productive workplace for everyone.