Monash University Accident Research Centre, Falls Study

Posted on the 31st of October, 2008

Extensive research since 2000 has found the design and construction of buildings to be responsible for a great majority of serious injuries caused by slips, trips and falls. The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) commissioned a study by the Monash University Accident Research Centre to investigate these important findings. The study aimed to decipher the precise risks the design and construction of buildings creates.

Particular focus on aged care services was undertaken in the study as the vulnerability of the elderly was recognised. “Older persons living in aged care facilities have been found to fall more frequently than older persons living in community dwellings” (p44). Increased incidences and their economic impact were highlighted as a growing problem due to Australia’s ageing population. The study concluded that the BCA carries a responsibility to provide protection and initiate “innovation in safe building design and construction”.

Data shows that slips, trips and falls in buildings cause 500 fatalities and 110, 000 hospital admissions across Australia annually. Issues including stairs and steps, windows, balustrades and railings along with flooring surfaces formed the recommendations for change presented to the BCA.

General recommendations include narrowing the broad range of sizes allowed for stair risers (change to 115-190mm) and goings (change to 240-355mm) (p188), implementing a requirement that balustrades be of non-climbable design regardless of their height above ground level, ensure the installation of window guards on second storey windows is mandatory and increase the minimum handrail height to 900m.

An inefficient definition is also cited as a current issue for slip resistant surfaces. It is suggested that the BCA should include a thorough definition that outlines the importance of factoring in environmental impacts on the slipperiness of surfaces. All internal wet areas and external pedestrian areas are suggested to have slip-resistant surfaces installed.

The recommendations given specifically for aged care facilities focus on the bedroom and bathroom. The majority of falls occur in the bedroom. For this reason the study proposes the “installation of force attenuating surfaces in the immediate vicinity of beds” (p189). New and renovated facilities should feature recessed door frames (including shower door frames) to reduce the risk of tripping.

The paper concludes with a clear statement of recommendation: “investment in effective preventative solutions is imperative.”