SLIP AND FALL ACCIDENT PREVENTION - A REVIEW OF RESEARCH, PRACTICE, AND REGULATIONS

This paper summarizes current research, practices, and regulations reg arding walking/working surface slipperiness and coefficient of frictio n (COF) measurements. The literature and data are reviewed from three aspects: (a) the biomechanics of walking and psychophysiological facto rs involved in slips and falls studied by the scientific community, (b ) various measuring devices and methods developed in an attempt to qua ntify the ''slipperiness'' of walking/working surfaces, and (c) an acc eptable quantitative standard for the ''slipperiness'' of surfaces and the impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on such a sta ndard. Unresolved issues related to slip-resistance are identified. A multifaceted approach and synergy from researchers, the building indus tries, standards organizations, and government are needed to obtain co ncensus on such issues.