Erika M. Pliner

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Erika M. Pliner is a leading researcher in occupational biomechanics and slip-resistant footwear, with a focus on preventing falls and improving worker safety. Her work centers on understanding how traction performance evolves over time, directly addressing a critical gap in injury prevention. In her most-cited study, "Traction performance across the life of slip-resistant footwear: Preliminary results from a longitudinal study" (2020, 24 citations), Pliner provides foundational insights into how footwear degrades in real-world conditions, offering evidence-based guidance for when to replace safety shoes. This research has practical implications for industries like food service and healthcare, where slip-related injuries are common. Beyond this paper, Pliner’s contributions extend to evaluating biomechanical factors that influence balance and slip risk, bridging laboratory findings with workplace applications. Her work is notable for its longitudinal approach, which captures the dynamic nature of footwear performance—a departure from static, one-time assessments. With a growing citation impact, Pliner is establishing herself as a key voice in ergonomics and occupational health, helping to shape standards that protect millions of workers. Her research is essential reading for students and professionals interested in the intersection of biomechanics, product design, and injury prevention.