Almost half of UK adults (43%) have experienced a slip, trip or fall on the stairs in the last 12 months, according to new research released by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF).
The findings highlight an often-overlooked risk in the home: 60% of those who had experienced a trip, slip or fall said it happened in their own property, highlighting the need for better awareness around stair safety.
Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the BWF, said: “With people feeling most comfortable in their own homes, they tend to take risks – using their phone on the stairs, carrying heavy items or simply rushing up or down.
“While a clear reflection of today’s busy lifestyles, these behaviours increase the risk of a slip, trip or fall, which could result in serious or potentially fatal injuries.”
The need for regular stair maintenance was also highlighted by nearly a third of accidents (32%) stated to be linked to broken safety features and poor maintenance, with the top five hazards cited as:
- slippery surfaces (40%)
- poor lighting (32%)
- items on the stairs (29%)
- uneven steps (26%)
- lack of handrails (23%)
In response to the research findings, the BWF has launched a safety awareness campaign, Speak up for Stair Safety, to champion the urgent need for safer stair habits and staircase design.
While the data suggests a clear need for individuals to take more responsibility for their own stair safety, many of these incidents could be avoided by making stairs safer by design. For example, adoption of British Standard 5395-1, currently voluntary in the UK, could reduce the risk of falls on stairs by up to 60%[.
“Staircases are one of the most-used features in our homes, and in busy households, handrails, guarding and other safety features are vital to help prevent slips and trips,” adds Helen.
“For all new installations and renovations, staircases need to not only meet key regulations and compliance standards, but they also need to be designed as a beautiful feature for the home while incorporating essential safety features. These play a key role in protecting people due to how we’re now using our staircases – distracted, in a rush and often with hands full.”
The Speak up for Stair Safety campaign calls on construction professionals to embed safe stair design principles into the development process, such as uniform step sizing, appropriate lighting, non-slip surfaces and secure handrails, while encouraging safer stair practice and behaviours for property owners and residents.
Helen added: “Safe staircase design and responsible use are the two core components of accident prevention. At the BWF Stair Scheme we believe that stair safety begins with staircase design and manufacturing. With the foundation of a safe design and installation, users can be reassured that core safety features such as handrails and guarding will provide crucial touch points should they be needed to help prevent a trip, slip or fall.”
