Estimated slip potential on icy surfaces during various methods of exitingcommercial tractors, trailers, and trucks

Many commercial vehicles are equipped with steps and grab-rails to help dri vers safely enter/exit the vehicle. Nevertheless, many drivers do not use t hese aids. The purpose of this study was to assess the slip potential of va rious exit methods from five common commercial vehicles under "assumed" icy conditions. The study assessed the required coefficient of friction of 10 male subjects as they exited cab-over-engine and conventional tractors, a s tep-van, the back of a box trailer, and the back of a cube-van. The results showed that the estimated probability of a fall was high lover 0.9 for wet ice conditions) when the exit aids were not utilized. Full use of the step s and grab-rails resulted in a substantial decrease in the estimated probab ility of a fall. An approach to safety that emphasizes optimal design of en try/ exit aids, and driver training and education, can minimize exit-relate d slips and falls and their corresponding potential injuries. (C) 2000 Else vier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.