The slip resistance of hard flooring is typically measured using the pendulum test, also known as the British Pendulum Test (BPT). This test is used to evaluate the slip resistance of flooring materials in both dry and wet conditions.
The BPT measures the coefficient of friction (COF) between the flooring material and a standard test slider, which mimics the slipperiness of a human heel. The test involves swinging the pendulum arm across the surface of the flooring material and measuring the frictional force required to stop the slider from sliding across the surface.
The results of the BPT are expressed as a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) ranging from 0 to 100, where 0 represents a very slippery surface and 100 represents a very slip-resistant surface. A PTV of 36 or above is considered to be slip-resistant for most applications, while a PTV of 25 or below is considered to be a high slip risk.
The UK has established guidelines for slip resistance in different applications. For example, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends a minimum PTV of 36 for most indoor flooring surfaces, while the British Standards Institution (BSI) recommends a minimum PTV of 40 for outdoor flat surfaces and 36 for slopes and ramps.
It’s important to note that slip resistance is affected by a variety of factors, including the type of flooring material, its surface finish, cleaning and maintenance practices, and the presence of contaminants such as water, grease, or dust. Regular testing and maintenance of flooring surfaces is crucial to ensuring their slip resistance over time.
