In recent years, sustainability has become more than just a buzzword; it’s a standard for modern facility maintenance. Many organizations are replacing traditional cleaning agents with eco-friendly alternatives to reduce their environmental footprint. However, an important question arises
Can these green products affect the outcome of a slipperiness test and, ultimately, the safety of your floors?
Let’s explore how cleaning choices might influence slip resistance and what property managers should keep in mind to stay compliant and safe.
Why Floor Cleaners Matter in Slip Resistance
Floor cleaners don’t just remove dirt they leave behind residues that can subtly change the friction level of the surface. Since a slipperiness test measures the dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) or static coefficient of friction (SCOF), the chemical composition of cleaning agents directly impacts how much traction a floor can provide under wet or dry conditions.
Eco-friendly cleaners, typically formulated with biodegradable or plant-based ingredients, may behave differently from conventional detergents. Some are less aggressive in cutting grease but might leave organic films that alter the test results. Conversely, others clean efficiently without residues, helping maintain consistent friction levels.
Understanding the Slipperiness Test
A slipperiness test is a standardized method used to evaluate a floor’s resistance to slipping. This test is often performed using instruments such as the BOT-3000E Tribometer under standards like ANSI A326.3.
During the test, a tribometer measures the friction between the test material and the flooring surface, simulating real-world conditions whether it’s a polished tile, a sealed concrete floor, or a vinyl surface. Accurate readings ensure facilities comply with safety standards and minimize the risk of slip-and-fall incidents.
When floor surfaces are cleaned with eco-friendly agents, the presence of natural oils, surfactants, or essential additives can either increase or decrease friction. That’s why periodic testing is essential whenever cleaning products or methods change.
How Eco-Friendly Products Influence Test Outcomes
Eco-friendly cleaning agents differ widely in their ingredients and formulations. Below are a few ways they might affect test results:
- Residue Formation – Some natural cleaners leave microscopic films that reduce friction, leading to lower DCOF readings during a slipperiness test.
- pH Balance – Neutral pH products may preserve surface coatings better than acidic or alkaline cleaners, maintaining long-term traction.
- Surface Finish Interaction – Plant-based surfactants can react with sealants or coatings, especially on stone and vinyl floors, altering surface smoothness.
- Water Solubility – Eco-formulas that rinse off easily help prevent residue buildup, keeping slip resistance consistent between maintenance cycles.
In short, not all green products perform equally. Choosing the right cleaner is critical for ensuring both environmental and safety goals are met.
Best Practices for Sustainable and Safe Floors
If your facility has shifted to eco-friendly cleaning, here are a few steps to ensure safety and compliance remain uncompromised:
- Test after every major cleaning change. Schedule a slipperiness test when switching to new cleaning chemicals or procedures.
- Consult with certified testing providers. Professionals can measure friction values accurately and advise on adjustments if results fall below safety thresholds.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines. Some flooring systems are designed to work with specific cleaner types to maintain surface grip.
- Educate your maintenance team. Proper dilution and application methods reduce residue buildup and maintain slip-safe conditions.
Balancing sustainability and safety isn’t about choosing one over the other; it’s about integrating both intelligently.
Eco-friendly floor cleaners offer undeniable environmental benefits, but they also introduce variables that can affect surface traction. Regular slipperiness testing is the best way to ensure your green cleaning initiatives don’t compromise safety or compliance with standards like ANSI A326.3.
Facilities that stay proactive with testing gain peace of mind, protecting both people and their reputation. Contact us to purchase our ReBoost Plus floor cleaner.
