Abstract
Same level falls continue to contribute to an alarming number of slip/trip/fall injuries in the mining workforce. The objective of this study was to investigate how walking on different surface types and transverse slopes influences gait parameters that may be associated with a trip event. Gait analysis was performed for ten subjects on two orientations (level and sloped) on smooth, hard surface (control) and irregular (gravel, larger rocks) surfaces. Walking on irregular surfaces significantly increased toe clearance compared to walking on the smooth surface. There was a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in cadence (steps/min), stride length (m), and speed (m/s) from control to gravel to larger rocks. Significant changes in external rotation and increased knee flexion while walking on irregular surfaces were observed. Toe and heel clearance requirements increased on irregular surfaces, which may provide an explanation for trip-induced falls; however, the gait alterations observed in the experienced workers used as subjects would likely improve stability and recovery from a trip.
Highlights
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, same level falls contributed to over one million lost work days (LWD) between 2005 and 2008 [1]
The speed (m/s) and cadence measured in this study was generally lower than reported by others for normal gait on hard surfaces; these values are similar to those reported by Wade et al [20]
Stride length was longer for the level control compared to irregular surfaces, but the mean stride length on sloped surfaces was similar across surface types
Summary
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, same level falls contributed to over one million lost work days (LWD) between 2005 and 2008 [1]. Injuries associated with slips and falls are of particular interest to the mining industry. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) database, 2,563 (14.4%) related to slip or fall of the worker, and of the 35,331 surface mine accident/injuries included in the MSHA database, 8,032 (22.7%). Related to slip or fall of the worker [2]. Slip or fall of the worker was a frequent injury classification for coal mining contractors, representing 21.9% of nonfatal lost-time injuries for coal contractor companies in 2006, 27.9% of nonfatal lost-time injuries for non-coal contractor companies in 2006, and 25.9% of all nonfatal lost-time injuries for sand and gravel operators in 2007 [3,4,5]. The prevention of traumatic injuries relating to slips and falls has been identified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) as one of the strategic goals of their mine safety research program [6]
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