^{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

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.