H Harvey Cohen1, Gary D Sloan2. 1. Error Analysis, Inc., 5173 Waring Rd., Suite 157, San Diego, CA 92120, USA. Electronic address: harvey@erroranalysis.com. 2. G. David Sloan, Inc., 2934 Steamboat Island NW, Olympia, WA 98502, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Walkway codes and standards are created through consensus by committees based on a number of factors, including historical precedence, common practice, cost, and, sometimes, empirical data. The authors maintain that codes and standards that can have an impact on human safety and welfare should give consideration in their formulation to the results of pertinent scientific research. PURPOSE: This article extends a companion one in examining many elements of common walkway codes and standards related specifically to lighting, warnings and markings. It indicates which elements are based on or supported by empirical data; and which elements could benefit from additional scientific research. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This article identifies areas in which additional research leading toward scientific based codes and standards may be beneficial in enhancing the safety of pedestrian walkway surfaces.
BACKGROUND: Walkway codes and standards are created through consensus by committees based on a number of factors, including historical precedence, common practice, cost, and, sometimes, empirical data. The authors maintain that codes and standards that can have an impact on human safety and welfare should give consideration in their formulation to the results of pertinent scientific research. PURPOSE: This article extends a companion one in examining many elements of common walkway codes and standards related specifically to lighting, warnings and markings. It indicates which elements are based on or supported by empirical data; and which elements could benefit from additional scientific research. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This article identifies areas in which additional research leading toward scientific based codes and standards may be beneficial in enhancing the safety of pedestrian walkway surfaces.
Authors: Santosh K Verma; Joanna L Willetts; Helen L Corns; Helen R Marucci-Wellman; David A Lombardi; Theodore K Courtney Journal: PLoS One Date: 2016-03-15 Impact factor: 3.240