Introduction: Slip Hazards Are One of the Biggest Workplace Risks
Slips, trips, and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries across Australia. In industrial and commercial environments, flooring plays a direct role in either reducing or increasing this risk.
Wet areas, spills, cleaning processes, and heavy foot traffic all contribute to hazardous conditions. Selecting the correct slip-rated flooring system is essential not only for safety but also for Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) compliance.
Epoxy and polyurethane flooring systems allow slip resistance to be engineered directly into the surface, providing a durable, hygienic, and compliant solution for high-risk environments.
What Are Slip Ratings?
Slip ratings are measured under the Australian Standard AS 4586, which classifies flooring from R9 (low slip resistance) to R13 (very high slip resistance).
These ratings help facility managers select appropriate flooring based on:
- Surface conditions
- Presence of water, oils, or contaminants
- Foot traffic levels
- Cleaning requirements
Using the correct slip rating reduces risk and demonstrates due diligence under WHS obligations.
Understanding R10–R13 Slip Ratings
R10 – Moderate Slip Resistance
R10 floors are suitable for:
- Dry or lightly damp environments
- General workspaces
- Offices within industrial facilities
- Corridors and walkways
They provide traction without excessive texture, making them easy to clean.
R11 – Increased Slip Resistance
R11 is commonly used in:
- Light industrial areas
- Bathrooms and amenities
- Production areas with occasional moisture
This rating balances safety with cleanability and is often specified in commercial settings.
R12 – High Slip Resistance
R12 flooring is designed for environments with:
- Frequent moisture
- Spills
- Oils or residues
Common applications include:
- Commercial kitchens
- Food processing areas
- Workshops
R12 systems significantly reduce slip risk while remaining hygienic.
R13 – Very High Slip Resistance
R13 is used in the most demanding conditions, including:
- Constantly wet areas
- Heavy oil or grease exposure
- Industrial washdown zones
This rating provides maximum traction and is critical where safety risks are highest.
Why Slip Resistance Must Match the Environment
Installing flooring with insufficient slip resistance can:
- Increase injury risk
- Expose businesses to liability
- Breach WHS obligations
Conversely, installing overly aggressive textures in low-risk areas can:
- Make cleaning difficult
- Increase dirt build-up
- Reduce hygiene standards
Epoxy and polyurethane flooring systems allow slip resistance to be customised by zone, ensuring the right balance between safety and maintenance.
How Epoxy and Polyurethane Flooring Achieve Slip Resistance
Slip resistance is achieved by:
- Incorporating graded aggregates
- Adjusting surface texture
- Tailoring the coating system
Unlike surface-applied mats or treatments, slip resistance in epoxy and PU systems is built into the floor, ensuring consistent performance over time.
Slip Resistance Without Compromising Hygiene
In many industries, especially food processing and healthcare, slip resistance must not compromise hygiene.
Epoxy and polyurethane floors provide:
- Seamless surfaces
- Non-porous finishes
- No grout lines or joints
This prevents bacteria, moisture, and contaminants from becoming trapped while still delivering safe traction.
Chemical and Cleaning Resistance
Non-slip flooring must also withstand:
- Daily cleaning
- Harsh chemicals
- Degreasers and disinfectants
Epoxy and PU coatings maintain their slip performance even under aggressive cleaning regimes, making them ideal for industrial and commercial environments.
WHS Compliance and Risk Management
Selecting appropriate slip-rated flooring demonstrates proactive risk management.
Benefits include:
- Reduced incident rates
- Improved worker confidence
- Compliance with WHS guidelines
- Lower long-term liability
Slip-rated epoxy and polyurethane floors are commonly specified as part of WHS risk mitigation strategies.
Industries That Benefit from Slip-Rated Flooring
Slip-rated flooring systems are widely used in:
- Manufacturing facilities
- Warehouses
- Food processing plants
- Commercial kitchens
- Aged care and healthcare environments
- Workshops and service areas
Each environment requires a tailored approach to slip resistance.
Why Wolffes Is Trusted for Slip-Rated Flooring
Wolffes specialises in high-performance industrial and commercial flooring systems, including non-slip solutions.
Clients trust Wolffes for:
- Expert assessment of slip risks
- Correct specification of R10–R13 systems
- Professional surface preparation
- Long-lasting performance
Every project is designed around safety, compliance, and durability.
Final Thoughts
Slip-rated flooring is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Choosing the correct R10–R13 system based on environment and risk factors is critical to workplace safety and compliance.
Epoxy and polyurethane flooring systems provide a durable, hygienic, and highly effective way to manage slip risks in industrial and commercial settings.