As a property owner, ensuring the safety of your floors is not just about keeping up appearances it’s about preventing accidents and staying compliant with safety standards. One crucial safety measure is floor slip resistance testing, which assesses the likelihood of slips and falls on walking surfaces. But what happens if your property fails this test?
Let’s break it down in simple terms and walk through what you should expect.
Understanding the Basics of the Test
Before we explore what failure means, it helps to understand what’s being tested. Floor slip resistance testing evaluates the coefficient of friction (COF) in other words, how slippery your floor is under dry or wet conditions. Standards such as ANSI A326.3 specify acceptable COF values based on surface types and usage.
These tests are often conducted using tools like the BOT-3000E tribometer, which simulates real-world foot traffic to determine how safe a surface is for walking.
What a Failed Test Indicates
Failing a slip resistance test means your walking surface has a COF below the acceptable standard. In practical terms, your floor is considered too slippery and poses a heightened risk of slip-and-fall accidents. This outcome can apply to various floor types tile, stone, concrete, or even vinyl, and both indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Real-World Consequences
A failed test isn’t just a red flag it comes with potential consequences that property owners should take seriously:
- Legal Liability: If someone slips and falls on your premises and your floor fails to meet safety standards, you could be held liable for injuries and damages.
- Insurance Issues: Some insurers may deny claims or increase premiums if your property doesn’t pass safety inspections.
- Operational Disruptions: Certain industries such as healthcare, hospitality, or retail may be required to limit access or close areas until conditions are corrected.
- Reputational Damage: Publicized accidents or citations can damage the reputation of your business or property management.
What to Do Immediately After Failing
If your property fails a slip test, don’t panic. There are proactive steps you can take:
- Request a Detailed Report: A reputable testing provider will give you a full breakdown of the affected areas and surface readings.
- Identify High-Risk Zones: Focus on walkways, entrances, ramps, or kitchen and restroom areas that tend to have high foot traffic.
- Apply Remedial Solutions: Options may include anti-slip treatments, floor matting, surface etching, or using high-traction coatings.
- Schedule Retesting: Once corrective actions are taken, retest the areas to verify compliance and keep documentation on file for future reference.
Preventing Future Failures
Prevention is better than cure, especially when it comes to safety and liability. Here’s how you can stay ahead:
- Schedule Regular Testing: Periodic floor slip resistance testing can help you catch problems before they escalate.
- Document Everything: Keep records of cleaning routines, treatments applied, and test results.
- Train Staff: Especially in commercial spaces, staff should understand how spills, footwear, and cleaning agents can affect floor safety.
- Work with Certified Experts: Choose NFSI-certified testing providers to ensure accurate readings and trusted results.
Failing a slip resistance test is not the end of the world but it is a wake-up call. With the right response, you can turn a failed test into an opportunity to improve safety, protect your property, and show your commitment to the well-being of everyone who walks through your doors.
Need Expert Help?
At Walkway Management Group, we specialize in professional floor slip resistance testing using industry-leading tools and standards. If you’re unsure about your current floor safety, or want to ensure compliance before issues arise, reach out to us today. Let’s make your walkways safer, together.
