Liability for the use of car parks

• Is clearly sign posted, well-lit and easy to find.
• Allows for clear visibility for both pedestrians and drivers.
• Has well drained and maintained surfaces which are level and not slippery.
• Has clearly marked parking areas with safe walking areas for pedestrians.
• Has clear speed limits.
• Has demarcation for pedestrians.

Consideration should be given to whether reverse parking is the most appropriate means of parking in specific bays.

Should a risk materialise  as the landlord/owner, you have a duty to ensure that the risk is appropriately managed. For example:

• During winter months when the road become icy and slippery, the road and pathways should be de-iced and grit laid down.
• Warnings should be in place where there are potential safety risks (i.e. cones or hazard tape) and the hazard dealt with as soon as possible.
• Replace/update worn road markings.

Where any incidents take place, a risk assessment should be carried out, and a management plan should be created to reduce the risk of recurrence.

The HSE provide further guidance on making car parks safer: Parking - Workplace transport - HSE