Slip Resistance Guidance for Construction Projects
In 2013 the Construction Products Regulation (305/2011/EU) was created. It is now mandatory for construction products in the UK (and the rest of Europe) to be CE marked. The new legislation applies to products placed for incorporation in a permanent manner in construction works. The construction legislation requires the product to be assessed against a harmonised standard. In the case of flooring the standard for testing is the pendulum slip test.
Pendulum Slip Testing Explained
The pendulum slip test is recognised by the Health and Safety Executive as a reliable and robust test providing accurate analysis on the slip potential of all types of flooring. This test is used to portray bare foot and shod foot walking over a tile. The test conducted is governed by the tile requirement. The pendulum slip test is the subject of a British Standard, BS EN 16165: 2021 and BS EN 14231.
Our tile testing service conducts pendulum slip tests on a tile sample. Full results providing information about the tile and its slip rating will be issued. The slip resistance rating will confirm of the tile falls into a ‘low potential of slip’ or ‘high potential for slip’ category. Once these results are known informed decisions can be made on the tile to be used.
Anti-Slip Treatment – Why?
If the tile should fall below the recommended potential for slip, we can offer an anti-slip solution. This can be a viable option for construction projects where certain tiles are selected which fall below the recommended pendulum test value. Our treatment microscopically roughens the surface of the tile thus increasing slip resistance. Treatment can be applied to sample tiles so any physical changes can be approved prior to being applied.
To speak to us about this legislation or to book a tile sample test please contact us.
Please note: slip tests are undertaken using a calibrated skid tester (test in accordance with BS EN 16165: 2021 and ‘The UKSRG (UK Slip Resistance Group)’ (issue 6, 2024). The HSE has adopted this as its standard test method for assessing floor slipperiness in both dry and water contaminated conditions. All staff are fully trained in the use of the pendulums and all pendulums are calibrated in line with BS EN 1097-2020 BS EN 13036:part 4 2011, BS EN16165 & ASTM E303-93. Certificates of calibration will be provided on request.
