The Slip Tester

Slips and falls are not trivial matters. With large claim values for fall injuries, insurers need to know the risks they face from exposure to liability. However, with differing standards for slip testing and instruments, it can be difficult to wade through varying expert opinions. This has resulted in a debate over the accepted standards and equipment used for slip testing.

This could lead to attacks on both the credibility of expert testimony, as well as the quantitative findings of the expert. This can present a significant problem, as forensic results should rely on quantitative findings and not solely on subjectivity or interpretation. Due to the lack of agreement in standards and methodology, the forensics of slip testing has been left on shaky ground.

The BOT 3000

Enter the BOT 3000, an automated tribometer (slip resistance tester) capable of measuring both the static and dynamic coefficient of friction (COF) on both dry and wet floors.

The BOT 3000 measures the static COF by automatically dragging the test pad across a surface, starting from a stopped position.

The dynamic COF is measured by automatically dragging the test pad across the floor surface, at a constant speed of approximately 20 cm/s.

The BOT 3000 objectively measures the slip resistance of various surfaces, surface conditions and footwear types, independent of user handling. It yields accurate and repeatable results, regardless of who is using it. Other commonly used testing devices require some degree of user handling while the measurements are being taken.

Calibration

To ensure the accuracy of results, the BOT 3000 is factory-calibrated annually and validated on-site prior to each testing session. After each test, the device can print out a time trace of the test data. The printout indicates the calibration and validation date.  These on-site printouts can be signed and saved for presentation at trial. These time trace print outs are also helpful in illustrating the changing nature of surface transitions (such as grout, etc.).

Device endorsement

The development of objective testing devices such as the BOT 3000 will undoubtedly improve the state of slip testing forensics and claims handling in Canada. The device is endorsed by the National Floor Safety Institute and is used in conjunction with approved American National Standards Institute standards.  

The BOT 3000 provides the forensic examiner with a portable, accurate and repeatable method of assessing the slip resistance of a walking surface under a variety of conditions.

In summary, the BOT 3000 is a reliable slip testing device that is, objective and well suited to withstand the scrutiny of litigation. The device will certainly ‘raise the bar’ for slip testing forensics in Canada in the coming decade. The use of the BOT 3000 by a qualified slip and fall expert will provide the insurer with clear and strong results required to handle a claim with confidence.

Jason Young is a registered professional engineer and is the head of the personal injury assessment team at Giffin Koerth. Michelle Livingstone is a registered professional engineer and has been investigating slips, trips and staircase fall claims at Giffin Koerth since 2007.

Note: Giffin Koerth is in no way affiliated with the manufacturing, sales or distribution of the BOT 3000 and has no partnerships, agreements or personal interests with any of those parties. Giffin Koerth gains no profit or benefit from our endorsement of this device.