HL Deb 05 April 2004 vol 659 c207WA
Lord Harrison

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In view of the number of accidents involving people falling on wooden floors and requiring attendance at hospital, what action they will take to improve advice given by wooden floor manufacturers and fitters to inform the public better. [HL2165]

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

The rising trend in home accidents involving wooden floors is a reflection of the increasing popularity of this type of flooring. The Department of Trade and Industry has no plans to take any specific action with regard to the instructions provided by manufacturers or fitters. As with other similar flooring surfaces, such as ceramic tiles and vinyl, consumers should take the normal precautions to reduce the risk of falling accidents. These include wearing slip-resistant footwear, avoiding polishing under rugs and mats and mopping up immediately any spilled liquid.