Trends SUMMER 2013 | 31
Things to Consider... Warning Labels:
Universities should be proactive in speaking with their furniture suppliers and discuss how their products meet these standards. If they do, ask that warning labels be placed on the bed ends with appropriate information detailed. As part of your annual room inspections, have staff check that the labels are still clearly visible. Additional steps to discuss bed safety are also encouraged to be reviewed by staff and residents during the move-in process.
growing trend on campuses to provide students the flexibility to use a ladder. With this new addition to the room it is imperative that they are used correctly in order to ensure the safety of the students at all times. Pay special attention to warning labels, sleep surface heights, and bed positioning to allow the ladders to be used correctly and safely.
Facts... A study about bunk bed-related injuries was
published in the June 2008 issue of Pediatrics, the Ladders: Although most beds offered to the market official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. today are designed with ladder ends for ease of climbing The study looked at nonfatal bunk bed-related injuries onto the top bunk or loft, there are times when a ladder treated in US emergency departments from 1990 to is necessary. This could be due to the space allowance 2005 involving individuals under the age of 21 (www. or configuration of beds in the room. There is also a kidsindanger.org ).
The main findings of the study include the following: - An estimated 572,580 children and adolescents were treated for non-fatal injuries over the 16year period, on average 35,690 individuals per year. - Children under the age of six suffered the majority of the bunk bed injuries and were at the highest risk for death resulting from head entrapment and collapsing mattresses. - Lacerations were the most common type of injury (about 30%), followed by contusions and abrasions (24%) and fractures (about 20%). - The body parts most frequently injured were the head and neck. - Falls were the most common mechanism of injury (about 73%). However, while playing or sleeping children sustain injuries resulting from falls, jumps, bunk bed ladders, bed malfunctions, and striking the bed. The purpose of this article is not to scare or create fear, but to highlight a topic and create awareness. No longer are residence halls and apartments used solely during the academic year. With more visitors to campus each year, a growing number of scheduled camps & conferences, and a litigious society it is important to understand the risk, prepare, and plan accordingly. Housing professionals have the responsibility to residents and the schools to foster environment that is safe, clean, and
most importantly portrays the institution’s standards and expectations. Take the time to talk internally regarding bed safety then have real conversations with suppliers. For all of us who desire safer campuses, there are practical steps we can take to raise the campus expectations and partner with companies who understand and have adopted such standards.