Standard To Help Reduce Slips and Falls

Falls are the leading cause of emergency room visits in the United States, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Unfortunately, the number of slip-and-fall accidents in the United States is expected to rise even more. Individuals over the age of 60 are the most likely victims of a fall. During the next decade, the number of Americans age 60-plus will double.

To help reduce the number of slips and falls, The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) B101 committee on Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention has released the nation's first-ever, floor safety standard.

Now, slip-resistance of a floor can be measured and categorized into one of three "Traction" ranges: High Traction, Moderate Traction or Low Traction. Floors categorized as High Traction means the floor is not very slippery and there is less chance of an accident occurring. However, floors with moderate or low traction are cause for concern and cleaning professionals need to re-evaluate the chemicals and applications they use on the floor.

Floors that receive a high amount of traffic should be tested more often. More traffic increases the likelihood of someone slipping or falling.