Applied ergonomics
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The main objective was to design and construct a prototype portable slipmeter with the capability of measuring static, transitional kinetic and steady-state kinetic coefficient of friction properties of on-site floors. The second objective was to evaluate its operation in the laboratory, using a commercial force platform as reference. ⋯ The results anticipate that the slipmeter may prove to be more valid than any traditional measurement technique. The study continues with biomechanical trials and will be completed during the year 2000.
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Research over a period of about 18 years has shown that a microcellular polyurethane known as AP66033 is the most slip-resistant safety footwear soling material on oily and wet surfaces. In recent years it has been replaced in commercially available footwear by a dual density polyurethane (DDP) which has a dense outer layer and a soft microcellular backing. This research programme has compared the slip resistance of AP66033 with DDP and some rubber solings. ⋯ No safety footwear soling provided adequate grip on dry ice and the CoF was reduced by water on the ice. A rubber used for rock climbing footwear was one of the most slip-resistant solings on wet surfaces in the laboratory but recorded the lowest CoF on ice. It is concluded that the incidence of occupational injuries caused by slipping could be reduced by the following: (A) returning to safety footwear soled with the microcellular polyurethane AP66033; (B) abrading all new and smooth footwear solings with a belt sanding machine coated with P100 grit; (C) avoiding the use of floor polish; (D) informing the general public about the poor slip resistance of ordinary footwear on ice and the lowering of slip resistance in cold weather.
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An estimated 2.5 million injuries, and a further 4000 deaths in the UK in 1995 were due to home accidents. About 230,000 of these injuries and 497 deaths resulted from falls on stairs. ⋯ One aspect of stair design, the "going" (the horizontal distance between two consecutive nosings) can be changed to decrease the potential number of serious trip accidents. Builders should therefore be encouraged to build stairs with larger goings.