A lot of the time when property owners are compelled to apply a non-slip or anti-slip treatment to their floors, one of the primary factors they consider is aesthetics. This is understandable, considering that most properties have aesthetic features which property owners would like to keep or maintain even with the application of a non-slip treatment.
However, there are many other things that property owners need to consider when choosing an anti-slip treatment, the most important of which should be the effectiveness of the treatment being applied.
Testing the Effectiveness of Anti-Slip Treatments
There are several different treatments for increasing the slip resistance of surfaces, including acid etching treatments, shot blasting, anti-slip coating, grinding and adhesive strips. And while all of these methods are proven solutions for increasing floor safety, their effectiveness can vary depending on the surface to which they are applied, as well as several other factors.
In order to properly evaluate the effectiveness of an anti-slip treatment on your specific flooring, slip testing is essential. Professional slip testing ensures you are making the best choice of anti-slip treatment for your specific surface, keeping pedestrians safe and avoiding costly accidents and lawsuits from slips and falls in your property.
So before anything else, always have your proposed anti-slip treatments tested for slip resistance. Anti-slip tests can be carried out on sample tiles, or at the location itself. Take note that any slip testing in Melbourne or slip resistance testing in Sydney must be performed by NATA accredited testing company in order to give you the most reliable slip test results.
Other Factors to Consider
Once you are assured of the effectiveness of an anti-slip treatment, you can then look into other factors which may affect the form and function of the surface to which the treatment is applied:
- Aesthetics – Many anti-slip floor treatments can and often do change the appearance of floors. They can alter the design, colour and general appearance of a surface, greatly affecting the look and style of an area. If this is a significant consideration (which is often the case especially in hospitality properties such as hotels, resorts, restaurants and malls), you may have to reconsider your choice of anti-slip treatment.
- Chemical Properties – Particular treatments, such as acid etching can chemically change the structure of the surface to which it is applied. Depending on the chemical resistance of your surface, chemical-based treatments may be less effective for increasing slip resistance; or they may just end up damaging your floors. To avoid such cases, it’s best to consult with slip resistance experts regarding these treatments.
- Mechanical Properties –Other treatments, such as grinding achieve a more slip resistant surface through mechanical means. They essentially rely on machinery to increase surface roughness. These treatments can be quite harsh and are therefore not ideal for all surfaces. They are more appropriate for large commercial and industrial areas.
- Adhesion – Many anti-slip treatments, such as adhesive strips and coatings are designed to adhere to most surfaces, though in some instances they may be more prone to wear or removal. This can depend upon the surface to which they are applied; the manner by which they are applied; and the amount of foot traffic they are subject to on a day-to-day basis.
- Cleanability – With many anti-slip treatments, the method of cleaning floors may have to be changed. Most, if not all treatments add a roughness and texture to surfaces which may make them more prone to dirt and grime.
- Durability – Like effectiveness, durability of a non-slip treatment is one characteristic that can also be professionally tested. As much as possible you want a solution that is not only effective but is also durable, as this will give you the best value for money. Take note however that every treatment will eventually require reapplication over a period of time to ensure continued slip resistance and safety.
To know more about anti-slip treatments and how to select the best one for your flooring, get in touch with SlipCheck today.
03 9604 0700
