SLIP AND FALL INCIDENTS

A slip occurs when an individual loses traction between his or her foot and the
surface on which is being traversed. When the individual falls as a result of this
loss of traction, a slip and fall incident has occurred.

The slip resistance between a walking surface and an individual's foot is dependent
upon several parameters:

• The floor material and finish
• An individual's shoe material and texture
• Environmental surface contaminants
• Pedestrian gait dynamics

If an individual encounters a slippery surface (or lower slip resistance) while making
a downward step, it is likely that the introduction of the slippery surface would be
unexpected. This sudden decrease in slip resistance may initiate a slip and fall accident.

The analysis of a slip and fall incident may include any of the following:

• Assessing the frictional properties between walking surface and shoe material
• Assessing the difference in slip resistance between adjacent walking surfaces
• Analysis of an individual’s walking pattern
• Testing of the floor material in accordance with applicable standards
• Assessing the conformity of existing floor material slip resistance, floor/stair
construction, or handrails, with applicable codes and standards