Slip Resistance Testing of Floor and Paving Surfaces

Floor and paving materials must satisfy a variety of both physical and aesthetic requirements. Slip resistance under both dry and wet conditions is a crucial performance quality essential to the safety of pedestrians and vehicular traffic. For vehicular traffic the term skid resistance is used.

There is an ever increasing range of materials available for internal and external floor and paving surfaces including those listed below:

• High strength wearing screed
• Polymer modified concrete
• Resin finishes (epoxy, acrylic)
• Natural stone
• Terrazzo
• Ceramic
• Clay or concrete pavers
• Mastic asphalt
• Timber
• Flexible (vinyl, rubber, PVC)
• Glass

The most commonly accepted and specified method of measuring slip resistance is by use of the TRL Pendulum Tester incorporating a rubber slider. Sandberg have UKAS accreditation for site and laboratory measurement of slip resistance using the Pendulum Tester to BS 7976-2.

Sandberg offer a comprehensive service of slip resistance testing ranging from advice regarding new materials to accident investigations. Below are listed some of the services available:

• In situ testing in various locations for example shopping malls, station concourses, lift lobbies and reception areas.
• Measurement of surface roughness (Rz) using a micro-roughness meter.
• Laboratory testing of proposed flooring materials including assessment of different finishes such as honed, etched or polished.
• Interpretation of results, the Pendulum Test Value (PTV) and calculation of the coefficient of friction (µ).
• Advice on remedial measures to improve the slip resistance of floor and paving surfaces.

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Slip Resistance of Floor and Paving Surfaces - Information Sheet

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