Slip resistance break down
Why Slip Resistance Matters
Slip resistance is an important consideration when selecting tiles and other pedestrian surface materials, particularly in areas exposed to water, oils, contaminants or frequent pedestrian traffic.
Selecting a surface with an appropriate slip resistance classification can help reduce the risk of slips and falls and assist in meeting applicable Australian building requirements. The appropriate classification depends on the intended application, environmental conditions, pedestrian footwear, gradient and other site-specific factors.
A slip resistance classification should therefore be considered as part of the overall tile selection and design process, rather than as a standalone indication of whether a product is suitable for a particular application.
Relevant Australian Standards
AS 4586:2013 – Slip Resistance Classification of New Pedestrian Surface Materials
AS 4586:2013 specifies methods for testing and classifying the slip resistance of new pedestrian surface materials, including tiles and other floor surfaces.
The standard includes different test methods for different conditions, including wet barefoot, wet pendulum, dry friction and oil-wet conditions. The resulting classifications are not directly interchangeable because each test assesses slip resistance under different conditions.
AS 4663:2013 – Slip Resistance Measurement of Existing Pedestrian Surfaces
AS 4663:2013 applies to existing pedestrian surfaces, including surfaces that have been installed and are in service.
It provides methods for measuring the slip resistance of an existing surface in situ. Results from AS 4663 should not automatically be treated as equivalent to a new-product classification under AS 4586.
HB 198:2014 – A Guide to the Specification and Use of Slip-Resistant Pedestrian Surface Materials
HB 198 provides guidance on selecting appropriate slip resistance classifications for different pedestrian applications. It considers factors such as the location, expected use and environmental conditions.
HB 198 is a handbook and guidance document, not an Australian Standard. It should be used alongside the applicable requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC), relevant Australian Standards and project-specific requirements.
Slip Resistance Testing Methods
AS 4586:2013 includes several test methods. The appropriate test depends on the conditions in which the surface will be used.
Wet Pendulum Test – P0 to P5
The wet pendulum test assesses slip resistance under wet conditions using a pendulum slider.
The result is expressed as a Slip Resistance Value (SRV) and classified from P0 to P5. The classification depends on the test conditions and slider used.
In general, the P classifications range from:
- P0: Lowest classification
- P1: Very low slip resistance
- P2: Low slip resistance
- P3: Moderate slip resistance
- P4: High slip resistance
- P5: Highest classification
The P classification should always be considered together with the actual test report, including the test method and slider used. A “P” rating should not be interpreted in isolation as automatically confirming suitability for a particular application.
Wet-Barefoot Inclining Platform Test – A, B and C Classifications
The wet-barefoot inclining platform test assesses slip resistance under wet barefoot conditions.
This test is particularly relevant to areas where people are expected to walk barefoot and the surface may become wet, such as swimming pool areas, showers and other wet recreational environments.
The classifications are:
- A: ≥12° and <18°
- B: ≥18° and <24°
- C: ≥24°
C represents the highest level of wet-barefoot slip resistance.
The A, B and C classifications should not be confused with the P classifications from the wet pendulum test. They are produced using a different test method and represent different conditions.
Dry Floor Friction Test – D0 and D1
The dry floor friction test measures friction under dry conditions.
The surface is classified as:
- D0: Mean coefficient of friction below 0.40
- D1: Mean coefficient of friction of 0.40 or greater
The D classification relates specifically to the dry test conditions and should not be used as an indication of wet slip resistance.
Oil-Wet Inclining Platform Test – R9 to R13
The oil-wet inclining platform test assesses slip resistance under oil-wet conditions with footwear.
Results are classified from R9 to R13, with higher classifications indicating greater resistance under the conditions of the test.
The classifications are:
- R9: ≥6° and <10°
- R10: ≥10° and <19°
- R11: ≥19° and <27°
- R12: ≥27° and <35°
- R13: ≥35°
The R classification is particularly relevant when assessing surfaces exposed to oily or greasy contaminants. It should not be treated as directly equivalent to a P classification, as the two tests assess different conditions.
Understanding Slip Resistance Classifications
Slip resistance ratings are test classifications, not universal application ratings.
For example, a P4, P5, R11 or B classification describes the performance of a surface under the specific conditions of the relevant test. It does not, by itself, mean that the tile is suitable for bathroom, pool area, commercial kitchen, ramp or outdoor application.
When specifying a tile, the relevant factors should include:
- Whether the surface will be wet, dry or contaminated
- Whether pedestrians will be barefoot or wearing footwear
- The expected gradient or slope
- The level and type of pedestrian traffic
- The likelihood of water, oil, grease or other contaminants
- The requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC)
- Applicable Australian Standards and project specifications
- Cleaning, maintenance and expected wear over the life of the installation
Where a specific slip resistance classification is required, the manufacturer’s current test report should be reviewed to confirm the test method, classification, test conditions and applicable standard.
Slip Resistance Classifications
Slip resistance ratings are test classifications, not universal application ratings.
For example, a P4, P5, R11 or B classification describes the performance of a surface under the specific conditions of the relevant test. It does not, by itself, mean that the tile is suitable for bathroom, pool area, commercial kitchen, ramp or outdoor application.
When specifying a tile, the relevant factors should include:
- Whether the surface will be wet, dry or contaminated
- Whether pedestrians will be barefoot or wearing footwear
- The expected gradient or slope
- The level and type of pedestrian traffic
- The likelihood of water, oil, grease or other contaminants
- The requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC)
- Applicable Australian Standards and project specifications
- Cleaning, maintenance and expected wear over the life of the installation
Where a specific slip resistance classification is required, the manufacturer’s current test report should be reviewed to confirm the test method, classification, test conditions and applicable standard.ing pools and wet barefoot areas.
Maintaining Slip Resistance
Slip resistance can change over the life of a surface. Even a product that achieves an appropriate classification when new may become less slip resistant if it is poorly maintained, contaminated or affected by inappropriate coatings.
Sealers, Polishes and Coatings
Some sealers, polishes, waxes and other surface treatments can alter the friction characteristics of a tile.
Always check that any treatment is compatible with the tile and will not adversely affect its slip resistance.
Cleaning and Contamination
Dirt, grease, soap, body oils and cleaning-product residues can increase the risk of slipping.
Regular cleaning using an appropriate cleaning product helps maintain the intended surface characteristics. Cleaning methods should be selected according to the tile type, finish and manufacturer’s recommendations.
Wear and Surface Changes
Traffic, abrasion, chemical exposure, cleaning practices and other environmental factors can alter a surface over time.
For existing installations where slip performance is a concern, in-situ testing in accordance with AS 4663:2013 can be used to assess the slip resistance of the installed surface.
Important Note
Slip resistance classifications should be used as part of the overall assessment of a tile’s suitability. No single slip rating is appropriate for every application.
For projects where slip resistance is critical, the architect, designer, builder or other responsible professional should confirm the required classification against the current NCC, applicable Australian Standards, project specifications and site conditions.
Test results should be based on the actual product and finish being specified, as changes to surface finish, texture, treatment or manufacturing can affect slip resistance performance.
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