When it comes to slip resistance testing, the standards you choose can mean the difference between safe compliance and unnecessary liability. For years, NFSI B101.1 and NFSI B101.3 was cited in safety discussions, but what many don’t realize is that ANSI no longer approves this standard.
So, what happened? And more importantly, what should you use today to ensure your walkways meet proper safety requirements?
Let’s explore the difference between NFSI and ANSI, why B101.1 and B101.3is no longer valid, and what this means for professionals responsible for walkway safety.
What Is NFSI B101.1 and B101.3?
The National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) developed B101.1 and B101.3 to measure the Static and Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (SCOF and DCOF), essentially how much resistance a surface offers when a person is standing still or walking. The goal was to identify potential slip hazards on dry floors using a threshold values. While it helped raise awareness about slip prevention, it had limitations in real-world scenarios.
Why NFSI B101.1 and B101.3 Is No Longer Recognized by ANSI
Though B101.1 and B101.3 were once considered a tool for measuring surface slip potential, it was didn’t meet ANSI’s formal procedures. ANSI (American National Standards Institute) requires that approved standards undergo public review, offer repeatable test methods, and include balanced committee participation from stakeholders.
Here’s the key point:
🔴 NFSI B101.1 and B101.3 are no longer an ANSI-approved standard.
It was officially withdrawn due to a lack of compliance with ANSI’s essential requirements. Without meeting ANSI’s strict audit and development standards, B101.1 and B101.3 lost its standing as a nationally recognized test. That means referencing it today could leave facilities out of compliance.
The Rise of ANSI A326.3
Replacing B101.1 and B101.3 is ANSI A326.3, which evaluates slip resistance using DCOF (Dynamic Coefficient of Friction) a method that more accurately reflects real-world walking conditions, especially on wet surfaces.
Here’s why ANSI A326.3 is now the industry gold standard:
- Measures slip resistance under movement, not just when standing
- Focuses on wet, interior hard surfaces, a common risk area
- Defines a minimum DCOF value of 0.42 for flooring used in wet conditions
- Used by manufacturers, architects, risk assessors, and safety consultants
Unlike B101.1 or B101.3, ANSI A326.3 is maintained through ANSI’s official process and is widely accepted in litigation, insurance claims, and building code compliance.
Why This Matters for Safety and Liability
Relying on outdated standards can leave you exposed, both legally and financially. If a slip-and-fall incident occurs and your safety protocols reference a non-approved standard like B101.1 or B101.3, it may not hold up in court. Just so you know, compliance with ANSI A326.3, however, shows that your facility follows a current, recognized method for evaluating slip risk. It also ensures better real-world accuracy and accountability.
Still Seeing B101.1or B101.3 in Reports?
Some testing providers may still use or reference B101.1 or B101.3 in their assessments either out of habit or lack of updated training. This can be a red flag.
What to check for:
- Does the report reference SCOF instead of DCOF?
- Is B101.1 listed as the method, rather than A326.3?
- Is the tribometer used not ANSI-recognized (like the BOT-3000E)?
If you’re unsure, request a retest using the correct ANSI standard and a certified tribometer.
Choose Compliance, Not Confusion
NFSI B101 played a role in starting the slip safety conversation, but it’s no longer the right tool for today. ANSI A326.3 offers a more accurate, legally sound, and nationally accepted method for walkway testing. If safety, compliance, and risk reduction matter to your organization, it’s time to move forward with the right standard and leave B101 in the past.
Still using outdated walkway test results? Let’s fix that.
Walkway Management Group uses the BOT-3000E Tribometer to deliver accurate, ANSI A326.3-compliant slip resistance testing. Our certified experts will help you stay compliant and confident every step of the way.
