According to the University of New Mexico’s Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention Program, “Standardization of steps and ramps is needed to prevent accidents.  Pedestrians need to have stairs and steps which are predictable in construction to avoid falling.  Walkways which change in slope and have unmarked single steps should be avoided.  Risers and treads should be uniform and have uniform dimensions to avoid tripping.  All treads and nosings shall be of slip resistant material.”  Stair coverings, like customized or retrofitted treads and nosings, must have a slip resistant material applied to them in order to ensure for a safe walking surface to avoid accidents.

(more…)