How do you test for slip resistance?

We use Pendulum Test Values (PTV), recognised by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the UK Slip Resistance Group (UKSRG) and the Tile Association in the UK, to determine the slip resistance of our tiles.

A Pendulum testing machine is used to measure the friction caused by a simulated sole material passing across the surface of the tile when both dry and wet. The higher the Pendulum Test Value the higher the slip resistance.

The pendulum test consists of a swinging arm with a rubber foot, which is then allowed to fall and make contact with the tile being tested. The test replicates a person’s heel strike, the point at which most slips occur.

There are two different rubbers used in testing, one replicates the sole of footwear, the other is a softer rubber designed to provide values relating to a bare foot. Water is used as a contaminant in order to measure the slip resistance of tiles in both wet and dry environments and the results are then recorded. The tests are carried out in accordance with BS7976-2:2002 and UK Slip Resistance Group guidelines.

All our tiles are tested for slip resistance by our suppliers and then tested again in-house by our technical team to give you peace of mind that the tiles you’ve chosen are safe for their intended purpose.