ISO 20347 Slip Resistance Testing of Occupational Footwear
The ISO 20347 standard is crucial in ensuring that occupational footwear provides adequate slip resistance, a critical factor for worker safety. This standard specifies the procedure to determine the dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) between an individual’s foot and a walking surface under wet conditions. The test is particularly important in sectors where slips can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
The testing process involves placing a shoe on a rotating platform, which then moves across a fixed horizontal surface at a controlled speed. A force is applied vertically through the heel of the shoe while it is moving over the surface. This force is measured and used to calculate the DCOF. The test must be conducted under controlled environmental conditions that simulate real-world scenarios.
The importance of this testing cannot be overstated, especially in industries like manufacturing, where workers are exposed to a variety of slippery surfaces such as wet floors or oily environments. Compliance with ISO 20347 not only ensures worker safety but also helps manufacturers meet regulatory requirements and improve overall productivity by reducing the risk of accidents.
The standard is applicable to various types of footwear, including safety shoes, boots, and other protective wear used in occupational settings. It provides a standardized method for assessing the slip resistance of these items, ensuring consistency across different manufacturers and industries.
The testing process also helps in identifying areas where improvements can be made. For instance, if certain materials or designs consistently fail to meet the required DCOF values, further research into alternative materials or design modifications may be necessary. This continuous improvement approach is essential for maintaining high safety standards in manufacturing environments.
In summary, ISO 20347 slip resistance testing is a vital component of occupational health and safety protocols. It ensures that workers are equipped with footwear that meets the highest safety standards, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall productivity.
Scope and Methodology
The ISO 20347 slip resistance testing method is designed to evaluate the dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) between an individual’s foot and a walking surface. The test is conducted in wet conditions, which are often more challenging for footwear than dry ones. This standard applies to occupational footwear intended for use on non-porous surfaces such as concrete or steel.
The testing apparatus consists of a rotating platform, a fixed horizontal surface, and a force measurement system. The shoe is placed on the rotating platform, and it moves across the fixed surface at a controlled speed. A force is applied vertically through the heel of the shoe while it is in motion over the surface. This force is measured to determine the DCOF.
The test must be conducted under specific environmental conditions to ensure accurate results. These include maintaining a temperature range between 15°C and 30°C, relative humidity levels between 45% and 65%, and using distilled water for wetting the surface. The testing process is highly repeatable, ensuring that the same footwear can be tested multiple times with consistent results.
The acceptance criteria for ISO 20347 are based on a minimum DCOF value of 0.5. This threshold ensures that the footwear provides sufficient slip resistance under wet conditions. The testing process is designed to identify any footwear that fails to meet this standard, allowing manufacturers to address any issues and improve their products.
The methodology for ISO 20347 is comprehensive and includes detailed procedures for preparing the test surface, calibrating the force measurement system, and conducting the actual test. These protocols ensure that the testing process is both reliable and reproducible, providing consistent results across different laboratories and manufacturers.
Eurolab Advantages
At Eurolab, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive slip resistance testing services that comply with ISO 20347. Our state-of-the-art facilities provide a controlled environment for conducting these tests, ensuring accurate and reliable results. Here are some of the advantages of choosing Eurolab for your slip resistance testing needs:
- Expertise in Compliance: Our team is well-versed in all aspects of ISO 20347, from test setup to data analysis. We ensure that every aspect of the testing process adheres strictly to the standard.
- Advanced Equipment: Eurolab utilizes high-quality, precision instruments for force measurement and surface preparation, ensuring accurate results.
- Comprehensive Reporting: After completing each test, we provide detailed reports that include all relevant data points. These reports are designed to be easy to understand and actionable, helping manufacturers make informed decisions about their products.
- Consistency Across Tests: Our controlled environment guarantees consistent results for the same footwear tested multiple times, which is crucial for quality control purposes.
- Customized Solutions: We offer tailored testing solutions that cater to your specific needs and industry requirements. Whether you need routine testing or one-off assessments, we can accommodate your schedule.
- Compliance with International Standards: Eurolab ensures that all our tests comply not only with ISO 20347 but also other relevant international standards like ASTM F1621 and EN ISO 20345. This broad compliance helps you meet various regulatory requirements.
- Supportive Services: Beyond just testing, Eurolab provides additional support services such as training sessions for your staff on how to perform slip resistance tests themselves and advice on best practices for footwear design and selection.
Choosing Eurolab for ISO 20347 slip resistance testing ensures that you receive high-quality results that meet the highest safety standards. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction sets us apart from other laboratories in the industry.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Industry Sector | Occupational Setting | Potential Hazard | Testing Requirements | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Assembly Lines | Risk of slips on wet floors | Determine the DCOF under wet conditions | Ensure footwear meets minimum DCOF value of 0.5 |
| Mining | Surface Operations | Potential for slips due to water from heavy rain | Evaluate slip resistance on non-porous surfaces | Identify footwear that provides adequate protection against slipping hazards |
| Construction | Outdoor Work Sites | Risk of falling on slippery ground materials | Test the durability and slip resistance of safety boots | Verify compliance with occupational health and safety regulations |
| Food Processing | Production Areas | Potential for slips due to spills from wet floors | Evaluate the effectiveness of anti-slip footwear in preventing accidents | Ensure workers are protected against slip-related injuries |
| Hospitality | Kitchen and Dining Areas | Risk of slips on surfaces contaminated by water or grease | Determine the DCOF under wet conditions in food processing areas | Guarantee that employees are equipped with slip-resistant footwear |
| Logistics and Warehousing | Warehouse Floors | Potential for slips due to spills from leaking containers | Test the slip resistance of safety boots on various warehouse floor types | Ensure that workers are protected against slipping hazards in different environments |
| Fisheries and Aquaculture | Piers and Boats | Risk of slips due to wet surfaces from rain or splashing water | Evaluate the slip resistance of protective footwear on various boat decks | Ensure that workers are equipped with suitable safety boots for their environment |
The use cases listed above demonstrate how ISO 20347 slip resistance testing is applicable across a wide range of industries. By ensuring that occupational footwear meets the required standards, these tests help protect workers in various environments from slipping hazards.
