Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2013

Abstract

Non-uniformity of steps within a flight is a major risk factor for falls. Guidelines and requirements for uniformity of step risers and tread depths assume the measurement system provides precise dimensional values. The state-of-the-art measurement system is a relatively new method, known as the nosing-to-nosing method. It involves measuring the distance between the noses of adjacent steps and the angle formed with the horizontal. From these measurements, the effective riser height and tread depth are calculated. This study was undertaken for the purpose of evaluating the measurement system to determine how much of total measurement variability comes from the step variations versus that due to repeatability and reproducibility (R&R) associated with the measurers. Using an experimental design quality control professionals call a measurement system experiment, two measurers measured all steps in six randomly selected flights, and repeated the process on a subsequent day. After marking each step in a flight in three lateral places (left, center, and right), the measurers took their measurement. This process yielded 774 values of riser height and 672 values of tread depth. Results of applying the Gage R&R ANOVA procedure in Minitab software indicated that the R&R contribution to riser height variability was 1.42%; and to tread depth was 0.50%. All remaining variability was attributed to actual step-to-step differences. These results may be compared with guidelines used in the automobile industry for measurement systems that consider R&R less than 1% as an acceptable measurement system; and R&R between 1% and 9% as acceptable depending on the application, the cost of the measuring device, cost of repair, or other factors.

Comments

Originally presented in the Proceedings of the XXV Annual Occupational Ergonomics and Safety Conference Atlanta, GA, USA June 6-7, 2013.

This study was part of Lea Jensen’s project for her M.S. thesis in Industrial Hygiene. Craig Ross participated and used the project for a senior project report for a B.S. in Occupational Safety and Health. Professor Roger Jensen was the faculty mentor. Partial salary support for Professor Jensen and tuition support for Lea and Craig came through a grant from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. For further information contact either Professor Jensen at the above email address, or Lea at Lea.Jensen@LibertyMutual.com.

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