Analysis of methods for controlling losses from slips, trips, and falls at XYZ Company

Abstract

This study provided an in-depth examination of losses resulting from slips, trips, and falls at an industrial facility. Areas of analysis included a comprehensive review of XYZ Company’s loss records, a review of housekeeping policies/programs, testing of floor surfaces to determine the slip resistant characteristics, as well as the testing and evaluation of footwear options to determine the effectiveness and financial feasibility of this control option. These areas were examined in order to develop the detailed understanding of the loss problem at the facility necessary for solution development and implementation. Methods of analysis included the use of an English XL slip meter to quantitatively determine the slip resistance of three types of flooring surfaces at the facility. Evaluated surfaces were tested under both uncontaminated and contaminated conditions to determine the ability of the flooring to provide adequate traction. A quantitative method was also developed using a force gauge to evaluate the slip resistant characteristics of footwear; experimental trials were conducted on a non-slip resistant and slip resistant boot to determine which boot performed better in XYZ Company’s environments. Coefficient of friction values were generated from the footwear experiments, and a comparative analysis performed to evaluate the performance of the boots. An additional element of the study was a cost/benefit analysis examining the financial impact on XYZ Company of implementing a slip resistant footwear program. Findings of the study indicated generally adequate levels of slip resistance on two of the tested surfaces, with a smooth concrete surface exhibiting low slip resistant properties. Results of the footwear tests indicated neither type of boot performed ideally on all of the tested surfaces; variations in sole design were determined to be the cause of the performance differences. Data obtained from the footwear experiments supports the slip resistant footwear selection criteria of ANSI/ASSE 1264.2-2001.