Testing on human subjects shows that a heel slip of three inches is 50 percent likely to result in a fall. Distance between tapes in the direction of travel should therefore be no more than 1 1/2 inches. Gaps between tapes should be perpendicular to the direction of travel.

     On stairs, we recommend that unless state or local regulations require otherwise, you have a a 2" wide anti-slip contrasting color strip no more than one inch from the nose of each stair tread.

     When considering the cost of tape, consider also the cost of a slip and fall accident. Hip fractures usually require a minimum of a two-week hospital stay plus surgical costs exceeding $65,000. Additional damages from falls may include income replacement or death benefit; pain and suffering, and loss of consort by family members; economic losses such as failure to complete contracts, close real estate deals, etc.; decreased quality of life (especially for the elderly); loss of anticipation of future activities, pleasure or comfort (“loss of hope”); and punitive damages.