Slip and fall incidents are a significant safety issue, accounting for numerous injuries and fatalities at home and in the workplace. A recent study titled Slip Resistance Evaluation of 10 Indoor Floor Surfaces explores the slip resistance (SR) of various indoor flooring materials under different conditions. Researchers from Montana Technological University investigated 10 common floor types, measuring SR when dry, wet, and with the application of a slip-resistant coating.
Using the English XL Variable Incidence Tribometer (VIT), the team found that dry floor conditions typically maintained higher SR values, ensuring safer traction. However, when wet, the SR of uncoated floors dropped significantly, highlighting the increased risk of slips. The application of a non-slip coating like Dura Grip notably improved traction, even under wet conditions, suggesting that coatings are effective preventive measures for enhancing floor safety.
The study's findings support the recommendation for workplaces and public spaces to implement slip-resistant coatings and maintain regular safety assessments. Given the statistical impact of falls—identified as one of the leading causes of emergency room visits and fatalities, particularly among older adults—proactive measures such as evaluating floor surfaces and applying treatments are vital.
This research underscores the importance of ongoing risk assessment and the use of protective coatings to reduce slip and fall injuries. For better safety standards, the adoption of uniform SR measurement protocols and transparent product labeling is encouraged.
Full Text: https://www.igminresearch.com/articles/html/igmin199
DOI Link: https://dx.doi.org/10.61927/igmin199
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