Slip Resistance by using a Pendulum or Ramp - Test Methods
Overview
Slipping accidents account for around 1 in 3 non fatal major injuries, and for over 1 in 5 over 3 day injuries in workplace areas throughout Great Britain There are at least 35,000 injuries per annum. HSE statistics suggest that most of these accidents are slips, most of which occur when floor surfaces are contaminated.
Applications and Benefits
Slip resistance measurements can be carried out on a range of surfaces from ceramic and stone tiles to resilient floors and wooden decking. Measurements can be taken either in the laboratory or on site. Laboratory tests are usually carried out on surfaces straight from the production line and will give an indication of slipperiness in order to determine the best application for the product. On site testing will give an indication of contamination or wear of surfaces that may or have already caused slipping accidents.
Form of Results
Depending on the test, results are in the form of either pendulum values (PTV) or ramp angles. Each result will categorise the surface determining its suitability for the application.
Tests Available from Lucideon
| DIN 51097 | Determination of antislip characteristics (barefoot) – ramp test |
| DIN 51130 | Determination of antislip characteristics (shod) – ramp test |
| BS EN 13845 | Slip resistance (particle based enhanced resilient floors) |
| BS 7976 * | Slip resistance using a pendulum |
| BS EN 1344 | Clay pavers – unpolished skid resistance |
| BS EN 1338 | Concrete pavers |
| BS EN 1339 | Concrete paving flags |
| BS EN 13036-4 | Road and airfield surface characteristics |
* BS 7976 has been withdrawn and superseded by EN 13036-4 although there is some dispute as to its suitability and so testing to BS 7976 is available on request.
Similar Tests for Other Applications
There are many other slip resistant techniques on the market.
The pendulum and ramp are the most widely accepted.
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