| 10 Risk Factors for Slip-and-Fall Accidents |
| HAMILTON, OH – Being aware of risk factors that can cause a slip-and-fall accident is a major concern in all types of facilities. According to forensic reviews of dozens of slip-and-fall injury accidents, these are the 10 most commonly associated risk factors for slips and falls: 1. Surface composition: Refers to the type of floor surface and its slip resistance when dry and properly cleaned.* 2. Foreign substances: Such as ice, grease, or water. 3. Surface conditions: Raised or recessed edges, loose carpeting, soiling and overall cleanliness of the floor. 4. Surface changes: For instance, walking from a carpeted floor to a tile floor. 5. Level changes: Surface level changes; unexpected slopes or raises of three steps or less. 6. Obstructions: For example, extension cords, hoses, and other foreign items. 7. Visibility: Poor lighting, but also glare, shadows, bright lights, or color contrasts, which can impede visibility. 8. Human factors: Different individual physical capabilities and physical challenges, shoe types, and familiarity with a walk area. 9. Stairs: Falls from stairs, which are defined as more than three steps. These typically result in the most serious injuries. 10. Unusual features: Out-of-the-ordinary conditions that might distract a walker, such as loud noises, strobe or flashing lights, etc. “Of particular concern is ‘surface conditions’ of the floor,” says Matt Morrison, communications manager for Kaivac, developers of the OmniFlex™ Crossover Cleaning system. “Conventional floor mopping methods can spread soils over floors and create a slippery situation, changing the floor’s surface condition. Selecting alternative floor cleaning systems can enhance cleaning results and lower risks.” * Some hard-surface floors may be slip-resistant when dry, but slippery when wet or soiled. |