Human-centred approaches in slipperiness measurement

Raoul Grönqvist, John Abeysekera, Gunvor Gard, Simon M. Hsiang, Tom B. Leamon, Dava J. Newman, Krystyna Gielo-Perczak, Thurmon E. Lockhart, Clive Y.C. Pai

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

108 Scopus citations

Abstract

A number of human-centred methodologies - subjective, objective, and combined - are used for slipperiness measurement. They comprise a variety of approaches from biomechanically-oriented experiments to psychophysical tests and subjective evaluations. The objective of this paper is to review some of the research done in the field, including such topics as awareness and perception of slipperiness, postural and balance control, rating scales for balance, adaptation to slippery conditions, measurement of unexpected movements, kinematics of slipping, and protective movements during falling. The role of human factors in slips and falls will be discussed. Strengths and weaknesses of human-centred approaches in relation to mechanical slip test methodologies are considered. Current friction-based criteria and thresholds for walking without slipping are reviewed for a number of work tasks. These include activities such as walking on a level or an inclined surface, running, stopping and jumping, as well as stair ascent and descent, manual exertion (pushing and pulling, load carrying, lifting) and particular concerns of the elderly and mobility disabled persons. Some future directions for slipperiness measurement and research in the field of slips and falls are outlined. Human-centred approaches for slipperiness measurement do have many applications. First, they are utilized to develop research hypotheses and models to predict workplace risks caused by slipping. Second, they are important alternatives to apparatus-based friction measurements and are used to validate such methodologies. Third, they are used as practical tools for evaluating and monitoring slip resistance properties of footwear, anti-skid devices and floor surfaces.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1167-1199
Number of pages33
JournalErgonomics
Volume44
Issue number13
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 20 2001
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Fall avoidance
  • Friction thresholds
  • Human factors
  • Postural and balance control
  • Safety criteria
  • Slip recovery
  • Slipperiness measurement

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Human Factors and Ergonomics
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

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