ISO 20344 – Footwear Slip Resistance Testing

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard ISO 20344:2017, "Footwear—Slip resistance testing of footwear," provides a standardized procedure to measure the slip resistance of footwear. This service is critical in ensuring that workers operating in hazardous environments have reliable, non-slip footwear which minimizes the risk of slips and falls.

The standard outlines several methods for testing footwear slip resistance under different conditions. These include the use of the pendulum tester method (ASTM D2039-18), the dynamic coefficient of friction test (EN 16475:2012), and the static coefficient of friction test. The pendulum tester, in particular, is widely used due to its portability and ease of use.

The testing process typically involves placing a sample of footwear on a specified surface, such as ceramic tiles or a rubber mat, and then subjecting it to increasing force until it begins to slip. The pendulum tester measures the angle at which the shoe just starts to slide. This test helps determine the coefficient of friction between the shoe sole and the surface.

The importance of this service cannot be overstated in industries such as oil & gas, where workers are often exposed to slippery surfaces due to oil spills or water accumulation. In these environments, non-slip footwear is essential for maintaining worker safety and preventing accidents that could lead to severe injuries.

Our laboratory adheres strictly to the procedures outlined in ISO 20344, ensuring accurate and reliable slip resistance testing results. Our team of experts ensures that every test is conducted under controlled conditions to replicate real-world scenarios as closely as possible.

Applied Standards

Standard	Description
ISO 20344:2017	Footwear—Slip resistance testing of footwear.
ASTM D2039-18	Pendulum test for coefficient of friction of non-skid surfaces.
EN 16475:2012	Determination of the dynamic and static coefficients of friction between footwear and a walking surface using pendulum tester.

Customer Impact and Satisfaction

The implementation of ISO 20344 slip resistance testing in our laboratory has significantly enhanced safety standards for our customers across the oil & gas sector. By providing accurate, consistent, and reliable results, we help ensure that workers are equipped with footwear that can perform under challenging conditions.

Customer feedback is highly valued, and we strive to exceed expectations by offering prompt service and detailed reporting. Our clients appreciate the comprehensive analysis provided in our reports, which include recommendations for improving slip resistance where necessary.

Use Cases and Application Examples

Oil & Gas Platforms: Workers on offshore platforms often face slippery conditions due to oil spills or water accumulation. Non-slip footwear is essential to prevent slips and falls.
Pipelines: Maintenance personnel working on pipelines in remote areas must have reliable, non-slip footwear to navigate uneven terrain safely.
Refineries: Workers in refineries are at risk of slipping due to the presence of various liquids. The use of slip-resistant footwear is a critical safety measure.

Application Example	Description
Oil & Gas Refineries	Workers often face slippery conditions due to the presence of various liquids. The use of slip-resistant footwear is a critical safety measure.
Petrochemical Plants	Non-slip footwear ensures that workers can safely navigate through hazardous areas.
Offshore Platforms	Oil & gas platforms are notorious for slippery conditions. Non-slip footwear is essential to prevent accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of ISO 20344 slip resistance testing?

The primary purpose of this test is to ensure that footwear provides adequate slip resistance under various conditions, thereby enhancing safety in hazardous environments.

How does the pendulum tester work?

The pendulum tester measures the coefficient of friction between a shoe sole and a surface. It does this by using a pendulum that swings over the footwear, measuring the angle at which it just starts to slip.

What surfaces are used in ISO 20344 testing?

The standard specifies ceramic tiles and rubber mats as typical test surfaces, but other materials can be used based on specific requirements.

How often should footwear slip resistance be tested?

Testing frequency depends on the environment and usage. Typically, testing is conducted annually or whenever there are changes in the working conditions that could affect slip resistance.

What factors can affect the results of ISO 20344 slip resistance tests?

Factors such as temperature, humidity, and the type of surface used can significantly impact test results. Our laboratory controls these variables to ensure accurate testing.

How do I choose the right footwear for slip resistance?

Selecting the right footwear involves considering factors such as sole composition, tread pattern, and the type of surface you will be working on. Our laboratory can provide recommendations based on your specific needs.

What are the consequences of using non-slip-resistant footwear?

The use of non-slip-resistant footwear in hazardous environments increases the risk of slips and falls, leading to potential injuries or accidents. Compliance with safety regulations is crucial to prevent such incidents.

How do you ensure the accuracy of your testing?

We adhere strictly to ISO 20344 and use state-of-the-art equipment calibrated regularly. Our team of experts ensures that every test is conducted under controlled conditions, replicating real-world scenarios as closely as possible.