What is Slip Testing?

& why do you need it?

Slip testing sounds very straight forward, but how is the slipperiness of a surface actually determined and why does it need to be done?

Evaluating the slip - resistance of a surface involves measuring the coefficient of friction, which indicates how much force is required to move an object across a surface. This is done with two pendulum tests per surface, while the surface is dry and while wet. The lower the friction, the more slippery your surface is. 

With this method it is possible to identify hazardous and unsafe areas and you are able to take action.

So why is it so important to know how slippery your floors are? It plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of everyone using the area. This might be an office space or a public place. 

If a surface falls below the recommended safety standards, it signifies a higher risk of slips and accidents.

Slip testing enables you to target the right areas which will require anti-slip treatments.

By being proactive and testing all relevant floors and surfaces you can prevent serious accidents and injuries. It also protects you and your business from legal liability.

Different uses of spaces require different floor ratings. Every business must comply with the set standards. 

As Unimat is NATA accredited for compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 - Testing, we can perform slip-testing and issue a report. If your floor rating doesn’t comply with the standards, we have multiple options for anti-slip treatments.

Another aspect that should be taken into account is that your floors can contain different flooring materials that may require different treatments, so it is possible that one floor is in need of multiple slip-tests and potential treatments.

Slip-testing is a valuable tool for improving safety in workplaces, schools, kindergartens, supermarkets, shopping centers, etc. and mitigating legal risks. It also contributes to a positive atmosphere as it makes people feel safer and more secure in their work environment or while using a public space.

For any further information, visit our Slip - Testing page.

Example of slip - resistance testing using the Pendulum Machine.

To determine the slip -resistance rating of a surface two tests are required. One while dry and one while wet.