In the previous blog post we explained what Slip Resistance is and how it is tested to achieve a rating. Slip resistance can be tricky to evaluate, but external third-party testing agencies – through controlled environments: test, measure and evaluate prepared samples for a resistance rating.
As you know there are a number of test methods, but the two most common methods are Oil Wet Ramp and Wet Pendulum. Current slip resistance within Australia is classified as the testing of new pedestrian surfaces and existing pedestrian surfaces. Slip resistance of new pedestrian surfaces are completed in accordance with AS 4586 (NATA) approved, while Slip resistance of existing pedestrian surfaces are done in accordance with AS 4663.
Slip ratings are classified in the following categories:
- R – Oil Wet Ramp Test
- P – Wet Pendulum Slip Test
- D – Dry Floor Friction Test
- A, B & C – Wet Barefoot Ramp Test
When you request a slip certificate the ratings above are what inspectors are after. The following table lists the minimum classifications for slip applications – Wet Pendulum or Oil Wet Ramp.
| Location | Wet Pendulum | Oil Wet Ramp |
| External Pavements and Ramps
External ramps including sloping drives, footpaths etc. Steeper than 1 in 14. External ramps including sloping driveways, foot paths etc., under 1:14, external sales areas (e.g., Markets), external carpark areas, external colonnades, walkways, pedestrian crossings, balconies, verandas, carports, driveways, courtyards and roof decks. Undercover car parks. |
P5
P4
P3 |
R12
R11
R10 |
| Hotels, Offices, Public Buildings, Schools and Kindergartens
Entries and access areas including hotels, offices, public buildings, schools, kindergartens, common areas of public buildings, internal lift lobbies. Wet Area. Transitional Area. Dry Area. Toilet Facilities in offices, hotels and shopping centres. Hotel apartment bathrooms, ensuites and toilets Hotel apartment kitchens and laundries |
P3 P2 P1 P3 P2 P2 |
R10 R9 R9 R10 A R9 |
| Supermarkets and Shopping Centres
Fast food outlets, buffets food servery areas, food courts and fast-food dining areas in shopping centres. Shop and supermarkets fresh fruit and vegetables areas. Shop entry areas with external entrances. Supermarket aisles (except fresh fruit areas). Other separate shops inside shopping centres – wet. Other separate shops inside shopping centres – dry. |
P3 P3 P3 P1 P3 P1 |
R10 R10 R10 R9 R10 R9 |
| Loading Docks, Commercial Kitchens, Cold Stores, Serving Areas
Loading docks undercover and commercial kitchens. Serving areas behind bars in public hotels and clubs, cold stores and freezers. |
P5 P4 |
R12 R11 |
| Swimming Pools and Sporting Facilities
Swimming pool ramps and stairs leading to water. Swimming pool surrounds and communal shower rooms. Communal changing rooms. Undercover concourse areas of sports stadiums. |
P5 P4 P3 P3 |
C B A R10 |
| Hospital and Aged Care Facilities
Bathrooms and ensuites in hospitals and aged care facilities. Wards and corridors in hospital and aged care facilities. |
P3 P2 |
B R9 |
ATTAR – Advanced Technology Testing and Research – Refer to SA- HB 198:2014 Handbook Guide to the specification and testing of slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces. 5.2 Classifications for particular applications. *There is no direct correlation between ratings obtained from different methods.
Now that you know the ratings used for particular locations, you can request the correct slip certificate for your project. If you still have any questions or just want to know more about Polycure & QTF Slip Certificates please Contact Us.