Forensic human factors and ergonomics analysis of a trip and fall event in a parking lot

摘要

Built (constructed) environments should have level surfaces to promotemobility and avoid injuries from trips and falls. Wheel stops (usuallylong concrete slabs with metal bolts to hold them in place) are sometimesplaced in parking lots to limit and control how drivers positiontheir vehicle in designated spaces. However, they present potentialproblems for pedestrians traversing through the area as they can causetrips and falls. A forensic human factors and ergonomics (HFE) analysisof a trip and fall event involving a wheel stop and its bolts in a parkinglot is presented. The factors of visual obstruction, salience, attention,expectancy, and relevance issues are discussed. Additionally, an alternativeanalysis involving hazard control is presented. Potential solutionsto limit risk to pedestrians and property owners are described.