Introduction: Safety Starts From the Floor Up
Every business is responsible for providing a safe working environment. While most safety conversations focus on equipment, training, and procedures, one of the most overlooked hazards sits directly beneath our feet: flooring.
Slippery surfaces cause thousands of workplace injuries in Australia each year. For commercial environments — such as retail stores, medical centres, hospitality venues, offices, schools, and public buildings — slips and trips are not just inconvenient: they’re expensive, disruptive, and potentially legally damaging.
This is where non-slip flooring plays a critical role.
Slip-resistant flooring solutions, including epoxy and polyurethane systems with aggregated or textured finishes, significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. They also support WHS compliance and demonstrate a proactive commitment to workplace safety.
This guide explains how non-slip flooring works, how slip ratings (R10–R13) apply, and how Wolffes provides tailored solutions to keep commercial environments safe, compliant, and functional.
Why Slips Happen in Commercial Workplaces
Commercial environments have varied risks depending on the industry, but the underlying causes of slips are remarkably predictable.
Common slip hazards include:
- Smooth or polished concrete
- Spills (water, drinks, oils, cleaning products)
- Foot traffic dragging moisture indoors
- Worn-out flooring with reduced traction
- Incorrect cleaning products leaving a residue
- Highly trafficked areas becoming polished over time
- Sudden changes in surface texture or level
Non-slip flooring directly addresses these hazards through both design and texture.
Understanding Slip Ratings (R10–R13)
Australia follows the AS 4586 Slip Resistance Standard, which defines slip ratings for pedestrian surfaces. These are referred to as R-ratings, ranging from R9 to R13.
For commercial environments, the most relevant ratings are R10–R13:
R10 – Light Slip Resistance
Suitable for:
- retail spaces
- offices
- reception areas
- showrooms
- general commercial foot traffic
Good for environments where spills are unlikely and floors are mostly dry.
R11 – Moderate Slip Resistance
Suitable for:
- cafes and small hospitality venues
- entrances exposed to light moisture
- bathroom corridors
- childcare centres
Adds traction in areas where occasional spills or dampness are expected.
R12 – High Slip Resistance
Suitable for:
- commercial kitchens
- wet service areas
- laundries
- aged care bathrooms
- medical facilities
- commercial food preparation spaces
Provides reliable grip even in areas where water, liquids, and cleaning products are frequently present.
R13 – Very High Slip Resistance
Suitable for:
- ramps (especially with gradients)
- outdoor walkways
- loading bays
- high-risk wet zones
- areas exposed to food oils and fats
R13 is the highest rating and is essential where safety is a critical concern.
How Non-Slip Flooring Works
Non-slip flooring isn’t a single product — it’s a customised system designed to fit the environment. Wolffes uses epoxy or polyurethane coatings, combined with the correct aggregates and texture, to achieve the desired slip rating.
Key Components of Non-Slip Systems:
1. Resin Base (Epoxy or Polyurethane)
Provides durability, chemical resistance, and a seamless surface without joints or grout lines.
2. Anti-Slip Aggregates
These include:
- silica sand
- aluminium oxide
- quartz
- specialised polymer beads
Aggregates are broadcast into the coating to add texture and grip.
3. Topcoat
A final layer seals in the aggregates, protects the system from wear, and ensures the slip rating remains stable over time.
4. Customisable Finish
From fine, subtle textures to aggressive non-slip surfaces, the finish is tailored to the safety requirements of each space.
The Benefits of Non-Slip Flooring in Commercial Settings
1. Improved Safety for Staff and Customers
Slip-resistant floors dramatically reduce the chances of injury. This is essential for:
- hospitality staff carrying hot food
- retail workers or customers walking on polished floors
- aged care environments with high fall-risk residents
- schools with active foot traffic
- medical clinics where hygiene and grip are both essential
Safety isn’t just a legal obligation — it’s good business.
2. Compliance with WHS Requirements
Australian businesses must demonstrate compliance with Work Health & Safety (WHS) laws.
Slip-resistant flooring:
- reduces liability
- protects staff and visitors
- supports audits and insurance requirements
- helps meet the AS 4586 standard directly
Wolffes ensures each flooring system meets the appropriate slip rating based on your industry and environment.
3. Long-Term Durability
Commercial floors see constant movement. Shoes, trolleys, prams, carts, furniture, and equipment all wear down surfaces over time.
Non-slip resin systems offer:
- high abrasion resistance
- impact resilience
- chemical protection
- long-lasting traction
This extends the life of the surface and reduces maintenance costs.
4. Low-Maintenance and Easy to Clean
Unlike tiles or vinyl, epoxy and polyurethane flooring is seamless. There are no grout lines or joins where dirt, moisture, and bacteria can accumulate.
Benefits include:
- faster cleaning
- improved hygiene
- reduced odours
- fewer recurring issues
Commercial cleaners often find resin floors easier and safer to maintain.
5. Customised Appearance
Modern non-slip floors don’t need to look abrasive or industrial.
Wolffes can tailor:
- colours
- flakes
- textures
- gloss levels
- patterns
- demarcation zones
This allows businesses to balance safety with aesthetics — especially important for retail, hospitality, and client-facing spaces.
Industries That Benefit Most From Non-Slip Flooring
Retail & Shopping Centres
Protect customers and staff against slips caused by spills or high foot traffic.
Hospitality & Food Service
Kitchens, cool rooms, dining areas, and bars all benefit from slip-resistant surfaces.
Healthcare & Aged Care
Minimises fall risk and supports hygiene standards.
Schools & Childcare
Supports safe movement in high-traffic corridors and activity areas.
Corporate & Office Environments
Entrances, kitchens, and bathrooms often need moderate slip resistance.
Public Buildings
Councils, libraries, sports facilities, and public venues require consistent traction across varying surfaces.
Choosing the Right Slip Rating for Your Workplace
Wolffes follows a structured approach:
- Assess environment risk level
- Measure slip hazards (existing issues, moisture, traffic)
- Recommend the correct R-rating (R10–R13)
- Choose an epoxy or PU system
- Select aggregate type and texture
- Install and certify to compliance standards
This process ensures every installation meets both practical and legal requirements.
Final Thoughts
Non-slip flooring is more than a safety upgrade — it’s a smart investment that protects people, reduces liabilities, and enhances operational efficiency. Whether your workplace experiences light foot traffic or demanding commercial activity, choosing the correct slip rating and flooring system can dramatically improve safety outcomes.
Wolffes specialises in delivering resilient, compliant, and long-lasting non-slip flooring solutions for all commercial environments across Australia.