Evaluation of Supplemental Countermeasures to Prevent Fall Accidents into Irrigation Channels

— Based on the questionnaire survey and measurement with laser range finder —

Abstract

In this study, we attempted to verify the effect of installing rubber poles at regular intervals along the edge of a road bordering an irrigation canal to deter pedestrians from approaching the canal. Further, the optimal installation intervals were examined. A questionnaire survey conducted among village residents (where experiments were performed) demonstrated that the alerting effect was exceptionally high when the interval between the poles was 2-3 m. The distance from the edge of the road to the position of pedestrians was greater with statistical significance when the interval between the poles was 3 m in comparison to when no poles were present along the road. The distance from the edge of the waterway to the position of pedestrian traffic increased significantly. In addition, it was found that the around the road influences the line of movement of pedestrians. Thus, it is essential to understand the line of movement when installing fall prevention measures.