Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Warning lights available;
induction cookers do not have a
surface but potential biological
effects of HF magnetic field
have to be considered
Hot surfaces (stove, oven, plate)
Sensor and warning device
Temperature mixing valve,
temperature indication of water by
coloured light
Available and in common use
(except in the UK)
Hot water (bath/shower)
Smoke detector; automatic
extinguisher; sprinkler system;
non flammable clothes and fabric,
stove use detector
Sensors available; mandatory in
several states in Germany; in the
USA more than 90% of houses
equipped
Fire, smoke
Gas, carbon monoxide,
radioactivity
Sensors for carbon monoxide
and other gases available
Gas detector; dosimeter
Sensors available; included in
modern appliances; missing in
water-taps in kitchens and
bathrooms
Flood
Flood sensor
Air-speed meter; actuators at
windows and marquees
Weather conditions
Light sensor; emergency light
smoke sensor with integrated
emergency illumination
Photoelectric lighting controller
available
Missing or poor illumination
Window/door unintentionally
open
Sensors available
The main factors in falls are:
physical ability and lack of mobility, balance and gait disorders;
•
nutritional status - deficiency in vitamin D and calcium;
•
medication - analgesics, antidepressants, etc.;
•
•
acute and chronic diseases and disorders including stroke and heart disease;
environmental hazards;
•
history of previous falls.
•
T
able 4.
Safety against falls.
Current state of technical
solution
Situation
Technical solution
Wearable detectors available,
separate or integrated in clothing,
shoes, walking sticks. Detectors
embedded in the environment
also available. Intelligent
mobility aids available (CAST)
but restricted performance on
rough terrain, on stairs and
doorsteps
Falls, (consequences fractures,
hypothermia)
Fall detector; fall-prophylaxis
device
Fractures, particularly hip fractures, are one of the most debilitating results of an
accidental fall. The 90% of hip fractures occur among those aged 50 and over. Hip
fracture is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. It can result in medical
complications, infections, a blood clot in the leg, or a failure to regain mobility. The
increased popularity of hip protectors has been very useful in preventing the severity of
injuries related to falls.
