Accidents resulting from slips, trips and falls can have a devastating effect on one’s life. According to statistics collated by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), slips and trips are responsible for over a one-third of all major injuries reported in the workplace, 20% of over-3-day injuries and 50% of the total accidents reported. This is costing employers an estimated £512 million per year in lost productivity and other associated costs.
Originally designed to replicate the actions of a slipping foot, the Pendulum Tester (also known as the Portable Skid Resistance Tester) has become the internationally accepted test method for surface slip resistance measurements. It is endorsed by the HSE and used extensively in legal proceedings/forensic investigations. It is universally acknowledged as one of the most accurate and reliable methods of of pedestrian slip testing.
Legal Requirements in the United Kingdom
Under the UK Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, employers are legally obliged protect employees, as well as visitors and other members of the public, from risk of injury or ill health. All slip risks must be adequately monitored and controlled to comply with this legislation.
Slip resistance testing is an integral part of workplace health & safety. It should be used to demonstrate compliance and to identify high risk areas.