Use it as a site-specific assessment, then keep it alive with routine inspections. If you want a quick walk-through version, use the checklist page first and then copy the findings into this template.
When to use this template
You'll get the best value from this template when something has changed or risk is higher than usual. Common triggers include new layouts, new processes, bad weather, staffing changes, contractor works, a near-miss, or recurring slip reports in a specific zone.
Use it for:
- Initial site assessment (baseline)
- High-traffic periods (seasonal demand, events, term-time peaks)
- After incidents and near-misses (learning loop)
- Before and during maintenance / construction work
- Any time routes, lighting, cleaning, or surface condition changes
Risk rating method (simple and usable)
Use a straightforward 1–3 scale so people can apply it consistently on site.
Severity (S)
- 1 = Minor injury (bruise, minor sprain)
- 2 = Injury needing treatment / time off (fracture, deep cut)
- 3 = Serious injury (hospitalisation, long-term harm)
Likelihood (L)
- 1 = Unlikely (rare exposure / strong controls)
- 2 = Possible (regular exposure / controls not always effective)
- 3 = Likely (frequent exposure / weak controls)
Risk score = S × L
1–2 Low: manage routinely
3–4 Medium: improve controls and set close-out dates
6–9 High: act immediately; consider restricting access until controlled
Slips & Trips Risk Assessment Template (copy/paste)
1) Assessment details
| Field | Entry |
|---|---|
| Site / Organisation | |
| Site address | |
| Area(s) assessed | |
| Assessment date | |
| Assessor name & role | |
| Competent person / reviewer | |
| People at risk | |
| Activities (brief) | |
| Normal operating hours | |
| Peak footfall times | |
| Weather exposure (external routes) | |
| Previous incidents / near-misses (summary) | |
| Related documents |
2) Scope and assumptions (make this explicit)
Write what's included so the assessment stays useful and comparable at review.
Included areas (routes, entrances, stairs, external paths, car park, welfare, storage):
Excluded areas (if any) and why:
Known constraints (access restrictions, shared routes, vehicle interface, temporary works):
Temporary works present? (yes/no) If yes, describe:
Any vulnerable groups (mobility issues, vision impairment, children, older adults):
3) Site overview (what the assessor observed)
Use 5–10 bullet points to summarise conditions in plain language.
Surface types observed (e.g., asphalt, concrete, resin, tiles, metal steps):
Condition and defects (e.g., cracking, potholes, uneven joints, worn nosings):
Contaminants likely (water, oils, dust, food/drink, leaves, algae, ice):
Lighting condition (good/patchy/glare/shadows):
Housekeeping (routes clear or cluttered):
Existing controls already in place (mats, signage, rails, barriers, markings):
Known high-risk zones (entrances, ramps, loading areas, toilets, kitchen, stairs):
4) Hazard log (main record)
Complete one row per hazard. If the same hazard exists in multiple locations, create separate rows if the controls differ.
| Ref | Location / Route | Hazard type | Hazard description | People at risk | Existing controls | S | L | Score | Further controls required | Owner | Due date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Open/Closed | |||||||||||
| 2 | Open/Closed | |||||||||||
| 3 | Open/Closed | |||||||||||
| 4 | Open/Closed | |||||||||||
| 5 | Open/Closed |
5) Control selection guide (use this to write better actions)
When you write "further controls required", aim for actions that reduce risk at source. Use this hierarchy:
- Eliminate: remove the hazard entirely (repair defect, reroute pedestrians, fix leak)
- Substitute: change material/process (different cleaning product, change entrance mat system)
- Engineering controls: change the physical environment (drainage, canopies, handrails, anti-slip surfacing)
- Administrative controls: procedures (inspection schedule, spill response, access rules, signage)
- PPE: footwear policy (useful, but rarely enough on its own)
6) Standard action library (copy/paste phrases)
These are practical, auditable actions you can adapt:
Entrances / wet weather
- Install and maintain secured entrance matting to control tracked-in water.
- Improve drainage / squeegee plan to prevent standing water.
- Add canopy / weather protection where feasible.
- Increase inspection frequency during wet weather.
Surface defects
- Repair uneven slabs, potholes, broken edges; make-good to flush finish.
- Apply temporary ramping / edge marking until permanent repair.
- Remove curled mats; replace with low-profile secured alternatives.
Contamination (oil/grease/dust)
- Identify contamination sources; fix leaks at source.
- Switch to cleaning method that removes residue (not just spreads it).
- Provide spill kits at point of use; train responsible persons.
Lighting / visibility
- Replace failed lighting; reduce glare and shadow pools.
- Add contrast marking to step edges / changes in level.
- Ensure emergency lighting tests are recorded.
Routes / behaviour
- Define pedestrian routes; keep them the easiest route to use.
- Remove storage from walkways; introduce "no storage" zones.
- Segregate pedestrians and vehicles where practical.
Anti-slip surfacing / treatments
- Specify slip-resistant surfacing for repeat wet zones, ramps, steps, external walkways.
- Prioritise transition areas (outside → inside) and high-wear approach lines.
7) Residual risk and access decision
After controls are applied (or while waiting), record the residual risk and whether access needs limits.
| Ref(s) | Interim control applied | Residual S | Residual L | Residual score | Access restrictions? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes/No | ||||||
| Yes/No |
8) Communication and implementation
This section proves the assessment was acted on, not filed.
Who was briefed (roles/teams/contractors):
Briefing method (toolbox talk, email, signage, induction update):
Date briefed:
Changes to cleaning/maintenance schedule (what changed, from when):
Changes to route rules / traffic management:
Evidence stored (photos, work orders, invoices, inspection sheets):
9) Review schedule
Set a review date that matches the site reality, not a generic annual tick-box.
| Review trigger | Yes/No | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| After incident / near-miss | ||
| After layout / process changes | ||
| Seasonal change (leaf fall / ice risk) | ||
| After contractor works | ||
| Routine review (monthly/quarterly/annual) |
Next review date:
Reviewer name & role:
10) Sign-off
| Role | Name | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assessor | |||
| Responsible manager | |||
| Health & Safety / Facilities |
Common pitfalls and how we prevent them
A slips and trips assessment fails when it stays vague. "Floor can be wet" and "signage in place" doesn't help you control risk or defend decisions after an incident. The strongest assessments name exact locations, describe what actually happens there, and assign actions to real owners with dates.
The second common failure is focusing on signs instead of causes. Warning signs have a place, but if water and contamination are routine, you need containment, cleaning method improvements, surface suitability, and route clarity. This template forces that by separating "existing controls" from "further controls required" and asking for residual risk and access decisions.
If you want to translate findings into durable markings, clearer routes, or anti-slip upgrades, use: Request a quote → or Talk to an expert →