Preventing Slips and Falls at Home: How to Reduce Your Risk of Accidents and Injuries

Slips and falls can happen anywhere, but they are particularly common at home. These accidents can result in serious injuries with long lasting effects. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common causes of slips and falls at home and effective ways for preventing slips and falls at home.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, falls are Australia’s number one cause of injury hospitalisation and death. They represent 42% of injury hospitalisations and 40% of injury deaths. The statistics show that every age group experiences hospitalisation due to slips and falls. However, especially children below 12 are affected and the risk starts increasing significantly from age 45 onwards.

Fall Statistics in Australia

• 243,000 hospitalisations in 2020–21
• 5,300 deaths in 2019–20
• Over 50% of all falls leading to hospitalisation happened on a single-level surface (for example, by slipping or due to a collision)
• Over half of injury hospitalisations from falls involve a fracture.

Causes of Slips and Falls at Home

One of the most common causes of slips and falls at home is wet or slippery surfaces. This can happen in the bathroom, kitchen, the front porch, pool areas or any other area where water is present. To prevent this, make sure to select slip-resistant surfaces or upgrade your existing surfaces with a non-slip solution.

Another common cause for slips and falls is poor lighting. This is especially the case around uneven surfaces, steps and stairs, leading to a higher risk of tripping and falling. To prevent this, make sure that all areas of your home are well-lit, especially hallways, stairways, and bathrooms. Another solution is to apply a nosing strip on steps and stair treads. Make sure the strip has at least 30% visual contrast with the original surface and is slip-resistant.

Uneven surfaces, such as loose rugs or uneven flooring, can also be a major cause of slips and falls at home. To prevent this, make sure that all rugs and mats are securely in place and that any uneven flooring is repaired as soon as possible.

Slips and Falls Can Happen to Anyone

The statistics are clear: a slip and fall leading to hospitalization can happen to everyone. The risk is especially high for children under 12 years and also increases significantly from age 45 and higher. In conclusion, slips and falls can be dangerous and can happen anywhere and to anyone, but they are particularly common at home.

Stellmann Non-Slip is Australia’s leading non-slip solution. Our durable coatings are available in easy to apply DIY packs at National Tiles or in our webstore. Contact us for installation by a certified installer near you.