Assessing Design Interventions Impacts on Children's Safety in High-Rise Communal Spaces in Lagos

Abstract

The safety of children in high-rise communal spaces is a pressing concern in Nigeria, where rapid urbanization and population growth have led to an increase in high-rise buildings such as the Eko Atlantic City, Lekki Towers, and the Icon Luxury Residences. Despite efforts to improve safety, accidents and injuries continue to occur, highlighting the need for effective design interventions. This study aimed to identify design elements and interventions that contribute to children's safety in high-rise communal spaces in Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys, interviews, and observations to gather data from 150 caregivers and 50 design professionals in these high-rise buildings. Thematic analysis and statistical tests, including the Chi-Square test and correlation analysis, were used to analyze the data. The results showed that safety barriers, lighting, and surveillance were key design elements contributing to children's safety. Clear signage, emergency response plans, and regular maintenance were effective design interventions in reducing accidents and injuries. The study also found a significant positive relationship between design interventions and children's physical activity levels. The study concludes that incorporating safety features, improving lighting, and enhancing surveillance can significantly enhance children's safety in high-rise communal spaces. Recommendations include designing play equipment with safety features, providing open spaces, and involving children in the design process.