The Working Group was assigned to survey the safety in housing for special groups of people in regard to injuries and accidents, to examine the present situation in related preventive work and to put forward proposals for development of the relevant legislation, guidelines and measures. The assignment of the Working Group was associated with the policy definitions and measures outlined in the Government’s Internal Security Programme.

From the point of view of safety in housing, as persons belonging to special groups are defined those for whom their reduced functional capacity causes dangerous situations and weakens their potential to act in emergency situations. The Working Group restricted their survey to examining safety in housing in regard to older people, people with disabilities, mental health rehabilitees and people with substance abuse problems.

The majority of the people belonging to special groups that are examined are living in ordinary housing. The proportion of residential care has been reduced. The access to information on injuries and accidents is best in regard to older people. The most common risks are falling accidents and fire accidents.

Many professional groups and voluntary workers can contribute to improving safety in housing. Strengthening the preventive work and cooperation are the main areas to be developed. Improved safety in housing supports the maintenance of functional capacity and ensures the prerequisites for living in the own home as long as possible. This also promotes the occupational safety of the staff doing home visits.

The memorandum looks at various forms of housing, the safety situation in housing, provision and supervision of housing services, functions related to safety in housing, relevant legislation, monitoring and types of support. Furthermore, the memorandum deals with technology, guidance and equipment promoting safety in housing as well as the legislation and programmes guiding the development and implementation of legislation to improve safety in housing.

The Working Group puts forward proposals for developing the national policies and legislation, the local safety work and regulations, guidelines and supervision, and housing solutions. Furthermore, it sets out proposals for developing services and activities, guidance and technologies, information provision to the population, stronger skills and research cooperation in order to promote safety in housing.

Key words: accidents, injuries, prevention of injuries, safety