Citation

Fathallah FA, Gronqvist R, Cotnam JP. Safety Sci. 2000; 36(2): 69-81.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Many commercial vehicles are equipped with steps and grab-rails to help drivers safely enter/exit the vehicle. Nevertheless, many drivers do not use these aids. The purpose of this study was to assess the slip potential of various exit methods from five common commercial vehicles under "assumed" icy conditions. The study assessed the required coefficient of friction of 10 male subjects as they exited cab-over-engine and conventional tractors, a step-van, the back of a box trailer, and the back of a cube-van. The results showed that the estimated probability of a fall was high (over 0.9 for wet ice conditions) when the exit aids were not utilized. Full use of the steps and grab-rails resulted in a substantial decrease in the estimated probability of a fall. An approach to safety that emphasizes optimal design of entry/exit aids, and driver training and education, can minimize exit-related slips and falls and their corresponding potential injuries.