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 occurred 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 considerations: 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.
