Oil and grease on walkways, platforms, and work areas cause some of the most common slip injuries on construction sites. Hydraulic leaks, fuel spills, lubricant drips, and release agent overspray all create dangerously slippery surfaces. These hazards often go unnoticed until someone falls. This talk explains the causes, the clean-up procedures, and what every operative must do to prevent oil and grease slip hazards.
Key Hazards
Slip injuries causing fractures, sprains, and head trauma on oily surfaces
Hydraulic oil leaks from plant creating unseen slip hazards on access routes
Fuel spillage during refuelling contaminating pedestrian walkways nearby
Formwork release agent overspray making adjacent floor surfaces dangerously slippery
Control Measures
Report any oil or grease spill on a walking surface to your supervisor immediately.
Clean up small spills promptly using absorbent granules or spill kit materials available on site.
Cordon off the contaminated area with warning signs until the surface is fully cleaned and safe.
Place drip trays beneath plant and equipment that is known to leak hydraulic fluid or oil.
Inspect walking routes at the start of each shift for oil, grease, or other slip hazards.
Apply absorbent granules, anti-slip grit, or purpose-made degreaser to treat contaminated surfaces.
Wear slip-resistant footwear with SRC-rated soles for work in areas prone to oil contamination.
Ensure formwork release agent is applied carefully to avoid overspray onto adjacent walkways.
Repair hydraulic leaks on plant before returning the machine to service on site.
Remember
Report any oil or grease spill on a walking surface to your supervisor immediately
Clean up spills promptly using absorbent granules or spill kit materials from the nearest station
Cordon off contaminated areas with warning signs until the surface is fully cleaned and safe
Place drip trays beneath plant and equipment known to leak hydraulic fluid or oil
Inspect walking routes at the start of each shift for oil, grease, or other slip hazards
Repair hydraulic leaks on plant before the machine is returned to service on site
Applicable Legislation: Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · CDM Regulations 2015 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999