Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Design and Analysis for Fall Detection System Simplification
Published on: April 6, 2020
Development of the St. Louis audit of fall risks at residential construction sites
Vicki K Kaskutas1, Ann M Dale, Hester J Lipscomb
1Program in Occupational Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8505, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA. kaskutasv@wustl.edu
Abstract:
We describe the development and pilot testing of the St. Louis Assessment of Fall Risks, a worksite audit to assess fall prevention safety practices on residential construction sites. Surveillance data and feedback from carpenters and safety instructors regarding work tasks associated with falls from heights were used to develop the audit instrument. The audit focuses on the framing process, including general safety climate/housekeeping, floor joist/sub-floor installation, walking surfaces/edges, wall openings, truss setting, roof sheathing, ladders, scaffolds, and personal fall arrest equipment. The audit was tested at sixteen residential construction sites, documenting excellent inter-rater reliability (kappa = 0.93). Results suggest that the audit has good face and content validity and is a reliable instrument for measuring fall safety risks at residential construction sites. It is practical, easy, and safe to administer, making it a potentially useful instrument for field research as well as regular safety monitoring by foremen and crew.
Related Concept Videos
Survey Safety
Design Consideration
The factor of safety is another key aspect...
Design Example: Managing Concrete Workability
To address...
Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
Design Example: Analyzing Capacity Contours for Flood Risk Assessment
Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities

