Disclosed herein is a
fall protection system and related method comprising a sensor; a computerized device receiving detections from the sensor, for deducing fall conditions from the body of a person to be protected, indicating that the person is beginning to fall; and at least one
cushion not carried with the person, for deployment at at least one projected
impact location where it is projected that
impact from the fall will occur, for reducing a force of the
impact, in response to detecting fall conditions. Also disclosed is a flooring
system and related method which changes from a hard state to a cushioned state upon receiving a
signal to effectuate said change, comprising: a floor surface; a
cushioning material beneath said floor surface; a hard floor support for maintaining said floor in said hard state during normal use; and a hard floor support release for releasing said at least part of said hard floor support responsive to receiving said
signal, such that once said hard floor support is removed, said floor becomes supported by said
cushioning material.