How do falls happen

Slips happen where there is too little friction or traction between the footwear and the walking surface. Common causes of slips are:

• wet or oily surfaces

• occasional spills

• weather hazards

• loose, unanchored rugs or mats

• flooring or other walking surfaces that do not have the same degree of traction in all areas

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Flooring

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Changing or modifying walking surfaces is the next level of preventing slip and trips. Recoating or replacing floors, installing mats, pressure-sensitive abrasive strips or abrasive-filled paint-on coating and metal or synthetic decking can further improve safety and reduce the risk of falling. However, it is critical to remember that high-tech flooring requires good housekeeping as much as any other flooring. In addition, resilient, non-slippery flooring prevents or reduces foot fatigue and contributes to slip-prevention measures.