Slip and fall accidents account for a large number of deaths and serious injuries in community, home, and work settings. According to the National Safety Council's Accident Facts from 1988, approximately 16,724 deaths occurred from falls. BLS statistics show over 800 fall fatalities in 2002 occurring at work. Of this number, most are in construction (421), while the rest are scattered in other industries. The most serious falls occur at heights, but serious falls also occur on walking surfaces that are not elevated. In fact, in 2000 according to the BLS, 198,861 lost-time work injuries resulted from individuals falling on the same level work surface. Another 52,794 lost time due to slips without falls. Falls are the third leading cause of lost-time injuries.
Prevention of falls involves several consideration: Footwear, Walking Surfaces, Contamination of Surfaces, Characteristics of the Walker, and Notice of Hazard to the Pedestrian. Since most of these factors are out of the control of the building owner, one is left to focus on the slip-resistance of the surface itself. In an occupational setting, several more of the factors can be controlled. Each flooring product and floor treatment surface producer has a legal responsibility to provide a safe product. High Safety Consulting Services, Ltd. offers certified testing services for slip-resistance.
