ASSESSMENT OF THE SLIP-RESISTANCE OF FLOORS IN THE LABORATORY AND IN THE FIELD - 2 COMPLEMENTARY METHODS FOR 2 APPLICATIONS

There are numerous methods available to measure the slip-resistance of different floor-coverings. The INRS has developed two distinct methods for the evaluation of the slip resistance of a given surface within the framework of its studies on the prevention of slips: One method that can be used to compare new surfaces. It uses a static device developed at the INRS and it is based on the evaluation of a coefficient of dynamic friction between a sample of a new oiled surface and an elastomer. This method is well-adapted to the needs of standardisation work; Another method that can be used to evaluate slippage in the field where the surfaces are often worn and polluted with a specific product. It uses a portable device developed in Sweden and it is based on the continuous evaluation of a coefficient of dynamic friction over a variable distance between the surface to be tested and an elastomer. These two methods which present well-correlated results are described in this publication, and their distinctly different uses will be underlined. The complementary methods described here are useful to those manufacturers who wish to evaluate the slip-resistance of their floors with respect to a scale delineating the degrees of risk. They are also useful to those working in accident prevention and those users who need to know the slip resistance of industrial surfaces and better understand the different risk factors.