Slips, Trips, & Falls

Photo courtesy of SafeStart

Miller Engineering has resolved hundreds of cases regarding slips, trips, and falls. We offer a wealth of experience and utilize specialized equipment in order to document the scene and accurately identify any combination of static and dynamic factors that contributed to the accident. Once we have evaluated the conditions, our safety experts can compare the environment to safety standards and help ensure that the area complies with building code requirements.

Some of the most common factors assessed by Miller Engineering are:

  • Human Factors
    • Missteps
    • Lack of awareness
  • Wet or Slippery Surfaces
  • Ladders
  • Poor Housekeeping
  • Uneven Surfaces or Changing Elevation
  • Obstructions, such as Trailing Cables or Unsuitable Coverings
  • Poor Lighting or Visibility
Vehicles_ClimbingSystems_2

Coefficient of Friction

The essence of climbing system design as well as slip-fall considerations includes at least two main concepts: three point contact while maneuvering or changing elevations, and slip resistance as measured by traditional coefficient of friction (COF).

The measurement of COF is the usual starting point. To the left, a figure from a draft of a book by Dr. Miller illustrates both the concept and methodology of COF.

Project Examples Regarding Slips, Trips, and Falls

Outdoor Slip and Fall – convenience store parking lot

  • Retained to evaluate conditions at a convenience store after an adult was injured in an outdoor slip and fall
  • Evaluated sidewalk safety and company procedures

Indoor Slip and Fall – carpeted recreation center

  • Retained to analyze a slip and fall on a carpeted gym floor that resulted in severe brain injury
  • Conducted coefficient of friction (COF) calculations

Outdoor Slip and Fall – parking lot at night

  • Hired to analyze a fall that occurred in a parking lot at night
  • Assessed the conditions including lighting, surface, visibility, etc.
  • Assisted in determination of fault