Slip-Resistance Testing: Deriving Guidance from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS)

It is suggested that recent advances in the measurement of slip resistance be translated into new safety standards. The difficulties which arise in the writing of safety standards are analyzed using the ASTM bathtub slip resistance standard as an example. The need for detailed injury data is indicated and the NEISS system is described. NEISS injury data regarding slips and falls are summarized. Human gait patterns for various age groups are described. It is suggested that information sources such as these be used in the development of effective safety standards.