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The science behind codes and standards for safe pedestrian walkways: lighting and visual cues
H Harvey Cohen1, Gary D Sloan2
1Error Analysis, Inc., 5173 Waring Rd., Suite 157, San Diego, CA 92120, USA.
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.
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