Over a third of all major workplace injuries that are reported each year are caused by a slip or trip and these cost employers over £512 million a year in lost production and other costs.

A worker who slipped on a hazardous step at an industrial lubricant factory in Stoke on Trent has received compensation from his employer.

Russell Scragg, 59, had worked as a blender for Fuchs Lubricants for 10 years when he slipped on the step, the surface of which had not been treated with an anti-slip covering. He hit his left knee and this aggravated a pre-existing condition. Mr Scragg had previously been diagnosed as suffering from osteoarthritis in both knees, but the condition of his joints was not expected to deteriorate for another decade. He now suffers frequent pain in both knees, which also become swollen if he stands for extended periods.

Since the accident, Mr Scragg has had to transfer to a lower-paid job in the packing department.

The failure on the part of Mr Scragg’s employer to provide anti-slip floor covering is surprising given the nature of the company’s business, as any spillage during the manufacturing process would present an obvious safety risk.

Mr Scragg brought a personal injury claim against his employer. Fuchs Lubricants admitted liability and an out-of-court settlement of £30,000 was agreed, to compensate him for his injury and loss of future earnings.

Advice on preventing slips and trips at work can be found on the website of the Health and Safety Executive.