Safe flooring can play a big role in reducing the risk of falls in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Floors that are slippery or uneven are common causes of slips, trips, and falls, especially when they get wet or worn down over time. Choosing the right type of flooring and keeping it in good condition can help prevent accidents.
Floors with good slip resistance are designed to give people better grip, even when the surface is wet or dirty. This is measured using special tests, like the Pendulum Test, which checks how much friction a floor provides. A higher test value means the floor is less likely to cause a slip. For example, many safety standards recommend a minimum Pendulum Test Value of 36 for level floors. In places like bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor walkways, even higher values may be needed because these areas are more likely to get wet.
It is not just about the type of flooring, but also how it is maintained. Floors that are damaged, cracked, or have bumps can trip people up. Even a small difference in height between two sections of flooring can be enough to cause a fall. Regular checks and repairs are important to keep floors safe. Cleaning up spills quickly and using non-slip mats in high-risk areas, like near sinks or entrances, can also help.
In places where people are more likely to fall, such as hospitals or homes for older adults, extra care is needed. Installing grab bars, using non-slip mats, and making sure lighting is good can all make a difference. For stairs, adding handrails and non-slip treads can reduce the risk of falls.
Footwear also matters. Even the safest floors can be slippery if people are wearing shoes with smooth soles. Encouraging the use of slip-resistant shoes, especially in workplaces like kitchens or factories, adds another layer of protection.
Safe flooring is just one part of a bigger plan to prevent falls. It works best when combined with other steps, like good lighting, clear walkways, and regular safety checks. Making small changes to the environment can have a big impact on keeping people safe.
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floor_slip_resistance_testing
https://www.ttclub.com/news-and-resources/news/article/tt-talk-slips-trips-and-falls/
https://thehomeaccessibilitytherapist.blog/2025/10/22/evidence-based-fall-prevention-through-home-modifications-what-occupational-therapists-need-to-know/
https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/health-and-safety/slips-trips-and-falls/
https://spisafety.blog/2025/10/23/slip-trip-and-fall-prevention-in-under-2-minutes/
https://www.prudentialuniforms.com/blog/restaurant-managers-heres-how-to-prevent-slips-trips-and-falls-in-the-kitchen/
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