Abstract:

This paper discusses the outcomes of a study undertaken be the Australian Building Costs Board into health and safety risks in buildings and data from injury surveillance. The study concluded that other building related hazards such a slippery floor coverings, poorly delivered stairs or excessive temperature of domestic hot water have been given low priority because they usually only affect one or a few people in any given incident. The most common structural related injury after falls includes fires, drowning & hot water scalds. This paper will focus on injuries and fatalities from the highest risk (i.e. falls). Environmental strategies such as building design and construction guidance, building regulations and enforcement alone, will not be successful in reducing the impact of falls or fall injuries among people