Key Learning outcomes
- Understanding slip resistance and LVT
- Testing slip resistance
- Key considerations and regulations
- Keeping up appearances – don’t forget aesthetics
- Slip-resistant LVT in action
Slips and trips are the most common cause of injuries in the workplace, costing employers £512million per year. On average, slips and trips cause over a third of all major accidents – and more than 40% of all reported injuries to members of the public. HSE (Health & Safety Executive) statistics suggest that most of these are caused by slips, trips or falls, the majority of which occur when floor surfaces are contaminated (usually by substances such as water, talcum powder, grease, etc).
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require floors to be suitable, in good condition and free from obstructions, to ensure people are able to move around safely.
Research by the HSL (Health & Safety Laboratory) for HSE identified a number of factors that can contribute to slip accidents. These include the location and use of a floor within a building, its environmental surroundings, the footwear worn on it, cleaning products used and the actual flooring material itself.
Given that different areas of buildings (particularly high traffic environments) can require different levels of flooring performance and slip resistance, it is important to consider the following key points.