Abstract:

The slip resistance of thirteen deck and other underfoot surfaces commonly used in ships was assessed by measuring the coefficient of friction between these floorings, contaminated with glycerol and three types of safety footwear. The kinetic coefficient of friction was measured with a prototype apparatus which simulates the movements of a human foot and the forces applied to the underfoot surface during a sudden slip on the heel. The rough floorings were more slip resistant than the smoother ones. When selecting deck and other underfoot surfaces and developing new flooring products, more attention should be paid to their surface structure.