This quick guide explains the basics of slip resistance standards in Australia: What they are, how they are different for new and existing flooring surfaces, and which test methods relate to the different standards.
The slip resistance standards for public areas in Australia are primarily governed by the Australian Standards AS 4586 and AS 4663. These standards outline the requirements for slip resistance testing of pedestrian surfaces, and along with Standards Australia handbook HB198:2014 they provide guidelines for ensuring the safety of floor surfaces in various environments.
AS 4586: Slip Resistance Classification of New Pedestrian Surface Materials
The purpose of AS 4586 is to specify the requirements and methods for slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials. Testing methods relevant to this Standard include:
- Wet Pendulum TestÂ
- Dry Floor Friction Test
- Wet Barefoot Inclining Platform Test
- Oil-Wet Inclining Platform Test
AS 4663: Slip Resistance Measurement of Existing Pedestrian Surfaces
The purpose of AS 4663 is to specify the requirements and methods for measuring the slip resistance of existing pedestrian surfaces. Testing methods relevant to this Standard include:
- Wet Pendulum Test
- Dry Floor Friction Test
What do the ratings mean?
Each test method gives a rating specific to the method. For example, the Wet Pendulum test results in a P rating, from P0 to P5, with P0 indicating the least slip resistance and P5 indicating the greatest slip resistance. The Oil-Wet Inclining Platform Test provides an R rating, while the Wet Barefoot Inclining Platform test gives A, B, C ratings and the Dry Floor Friction Test gives a D0 or D1 rating.
What constitutes a ‘good’ or required slip rating is not the same for all flooring surfaces; the classification requirements consider factors such as the location and conditions of the flooring surface. The slip rating classification required for a steep ramp in a wet, external location will be different to the required rating for an office lobby, for example. You can learn more about this in our quick guide to what constitutes a ‘good’ slip rating, and our Slip Resistance services page provides a table outlining the slip resistance recommendations for location types, as detailed in Standards Australia handbook HB198:2014.
Stone Initiatives recommends slip resistance testing is carried out regularly after installation, in addition to pre-installation testing of the product and surface finishes. This could be six-monthly to yearly testing for public areas, depending on factors such as traffic load and environmental conditions. Preventive measures such as using appropriate cleaning methods are also important in maintaining safe surfaces and reducing accelerated wear.
Get in touch with our experienced team to discuss the slip resistance standards relevant to your product or premises. Our skilled technicians perform fast and accurate testing of samples in our NATA-accredited laboratory in Adelaide, as well as visit projects right around Australia for on-site testing.