Influence of slip-resistant shoe classification and shoe age on under-shoe hydrodynamics during human slips

Slip and fall events are a major cause of occupational injuries. Footwear is an important consideration for assessing risk of slipping. Previous research has shown that shoe tread fluid drainage capabilities contributes to slip likelihood and that slip-resistant (SR) shoes tend to have better traction than non-SR (NSR) shoes. However, the role of fluid drainage in explaining these effects is not well understood. In this study, 57 subjects who wore either SR or NSR shoes were introduced to an unexpected slipping event. Under-shoe fluid pressures and slip occurrence were reported and their dependence on shoe type and shoe age were analysed. Shoe type significantly influenced peak fluid pressure and slip occurrence. This research suggests that SR shoes are more effective than NSR shoes at reducing slip severity. The reported shoe age may be weakly associated with under-shoe drainage and slipping risk.