SLIP RESISTANCE RATINGS EXPLAINED

A warehouse manager in Braeside called us three months ago about a workplace incident. One of their forklift operators had slipped on freshly marked pedestrian walkways during a routine safety inspection. The floor markings were less than six weeks old. Smooth, glossy, and apparently slippery as ice when slightly damp from cleaning.

The SafeWork inspector who arrived the next day tested the surface with a slip resistance meter. The markings came back with a P1 rating. For a warehouse floor with regular cleaning and occasional moisture exposure, that's inadequate. The recommended minimum for commercial walkways is P4, sometimes P5 in wet areas.

That facility got issued a safety notice and had to remark their entire pedestrian network at roughly double what they'd originally spent. Why? Because their contractor used standard waterborne paint without any anti-slip additives. Looked great. Met all the dimensional requirements. But failed on the most fundamental safety measure: adequate slip resistance.

This is why understanding AS 4586 slip resistance classifications matters for anyone specifying warehouse line marking or industrial floor marking. The ratings aren't arbitrary. They're based on actual slip risk, tested under specific conditions, and directly tied to workplace safety obligations.

[CTA 1] Planning warehouse floor marking or pedestrian walkways? Upload your site plans and we'll specify proper slip-resistant materials that meet AS 4586 requirements for your application.

What AS 4586 Actually Measures

AS 4586:2013 (Slip resistance classification of pedestrian surface materials) provides standardized test methods for measuring and classifying how slippery a surface is. It doesn't tell you whether a surface is safe or unsafe. It gives you numerical classifications that you then compare against recommended values for different applications.

The standard uses two main test methods that produce different rating systems: the wet pendulum test (which produces P ratings) and the oil-wet ramp test (which produces R ratings). Both methods simulate slip conditions but they're measuring different things.

Think of it like this. The P rating tells you how slippery a surface is underfoot when walking normally. The R rating tells you how much grip a surface provides on an incline. Different tests, different applications, both important for different situations.

Most floor marking work is assessed using P ratings because we're marking pedestrian walkways, forklift lanes, loading zones, and other areas where people walk on relatively flat surfaces. R ratings become relevant for ramps, loading docks, and any inclined surfaces.

Understanding P Ratings (The Wet Pendulum Test)

The wet pendulum test involves a weighted pendulum with a rubber slider that swings across a wetted surface. The slider simulates a heel striking a wet floor. The test measures how much the rubber grips versus slides across the surface. That measurement gets converted to a British Pendulum Number (BPN) which then corresponds to a P rating classification.

Here's how the P rating scale works:

P0: BPN less than 25. Extremely slippery. Basically unusable for pedestrian traffic.

P1: BPN 25-35. Very slippery. Only acceptable for areas that stay completely dry at all times.

P2: BPN 36-44. Slippery when wet. Minimal slip resistance. Not recommended for most applications.

P3: BPN 45-54. Moderate slip resistance. Acceptable for indoor areas with minimal moisture exposure.

P4: BPN 55-75. Good slip resistance. Suitable for commercial walkways, light industrial floors, areas with occasional wet cleaning.

P5: BPN 76+. Very good slip resistance. Recommended for outdoor areas, wet environments, food processing facilities, anywhere regular moisture exposure occurs.

That Braeside warehouse with the P1 rating? The floor got cleaned nightly with mechanical scrubbers. Regular moisture exposure. P4 minimum was needed, P5 would've been better. Their smooth paint marking was completely inadequate for the application.

Understanding R Ratings (The Oil-Wet Ramp Test)

The oil-wet ramp test is exactly what it sounds like. A test panel gets covered with oil (to make it extremely slippery) and positioned at progressively steeper angles. A person wearing standardized footwear walks on the panel. The angle at which they can no longer maintain footing determines the R rating.

R ratings range from R9 to R13:

R9: Angle 6-10 degrees. Minimal slip resistance on inclines.

R10: Angle 10-19 degrees. Moderate slip resistance. Suitable for slight ramps and gentle slopes.

R11: Angle 19-27 degrees. Good slip resistance. Appropriate for loading docks and standard ramps.

R12: Angle 27-35 degrees. Very good slip resistance. Used for steep ramps and industrial applications.

R13: Angle 35+ degrees. Extreme slip resistance. Rarely needed except for specialized applications.

Most loading docks and warehouse ramps need R11 minimum. That's specified in AS 1428.1:2009 (Design for access and mobility) for accessible ramps and it's become standard practice for commercial ramp applications.

We marked a loading dock ramp in Tullamarine last year. The facility manager wanted standard thermoplastic. We recommended R11-rated textured thermoplastic with aggregate. He pushed back on cost. We explained the liability if someone slipped on an inadequately specified ramp surface. He agreed to proper specification. That's the conversation every contractor should be having.

How Slip Resistance Gets Measured

The testing itself requires specialized equipment and trained technicians. You can't eyeball slip resistance. You can't assume a material is adequate based on how it looks or feels. It needs actual measurement.

For the wet pendulum test, the surface must be wetted with a controlled amount of water (to simulate realistic wet conditions). The pendulum gets calibrated using reference surfaces of known slip resistance. The rubber slider contacts the test surface for a specific distance. The pendulum loses energy based on how much the slider grips the surface. That energy loss gets measured and converted to BPN values.

Multiple tests get performed on different areas of the surface. The results get averaged. There's specific protocols around test location, surface conditioning, water application rate, all documented in AS 4586:2013.

This isn't something contractors typically do in the field during floor marking installation (the equipment costs $15,000+ and requires regular calibration). Testing usually happens either on material samples before installation or as part of post-installation verification by independent testing labs.

We learned back in 2016 that specifying materials based on manufacturer data sheets prevents problems. A cold storage facility in Moorabbin specified textured epoxy floor marking. The manufacturer's data showed P4 rating. We applied it exactly to specification. Post-installation testing came back P5. Perfect result because we trusted verified test data rather than making assumptions.

Slip Resistant Floor Marking Materials

Standard waterborne paint typically achieves P1 to P2 ratings. Smooth. Glossy. Perfectly fine for applications that stay dry. Completely inadequate for anything involving moisture exposure or regular cleaning.

If you need higher slip resistance, you've got several material options:

Textured Thermoplastic

Thermoplastic material can be manufactured with textured surface profiles that significantly improve slip resistance. The texture gets created during manufacturing by incorporating aggregate or creating surface patterning. When applied hot, the material retains that textured profile as it cools.

Quality textured thermoplastic achieves P4 to P5 ratings depending on texture depth and aggregate selection. It's our go-to material for warehouse pedestrian walkways, loading zones, and any application requiring durable marking with good slip resistance.

A logistics facility in Keysborough specified textured thermoplastic for all their pedestrian walkways. They clean floors nightly with ride-on scrubbers. Three years later, the markings still show good slip resistance based on their regular safety audits. That's what proper material specification accomplishes.

Aggregate-Modified Paint

You can add fine aggregate (typically aluminum oxide or similar materials) to waterborne or solvent-based paints. The aggregate particles create surface texture that improves slip resistance. The amount and size of aggregate determines the final slip rating.

This approach works but requires careful application. Too much aggregate and the paint becomes difficult to apply smoothly. Too little and you don't achieve adequate slip resistance improvement. The aggregate needs to be evenly distributed throughout the paint and properly dispersed during application.

We've used aggregate-modified paints for school playgrounds and sports courts where P3 to P4 ratings are needed but thermoplastic isn't specified. It's more labor-intensive than standard paint application but it achieves measurable slip resistance improvement.

Two-Pack Epoxy with Texture

For industrial floors, particularly those with chemical exposure or extreme durability requirements, two-pack epoxy floor marking can incorporate aggregate for slip resistance. The epoxy provides chemical resistance and durability. The aggregate provides slip resistance.

A pharmaceutical facility in Tullamarine required chemical-resistant floor marking with P5 slip resistance. We used two-pack epoxy with fine quartz aggregate broadcast into the surface while the epoxy was still wet. Post-cure testing confirmed P5 rating and the marking has withstood regular chemical cleaning for over four years now.

Anti-Slip Tape (Temporary Option)

Anti-slip tape isn't really line marking but it's worth mentioning as a temporary option. Pressure-sensitive adhesive tape with aggressive textured surface. Available in various colors. Achieves P4 to P5 ratings depending on texture type.

We don't typically recommend anti-slip tape for permanent installations because it's less durable than properly applied marking materials. But it's useful for temporary applications or as interim slip resistance improvement while planning permanent remarking.

[CTA 2] Need slip-resistant floor marking that meets AS 4586 requirements? Upload your facility plans showing wet areas, cleaning protocols, and traffic patterns for proper material specification.

When to Specify Higher Slip Resistance

Not every application needs P5 rating. Overspecifying adds cost without benefit. Understanding when higher slip resistance is actually required helps make informed decisions.

Wet or Frequently Cleaned Areas

Anywhere that regularly gets wet needs minimum P4, preferably P5. This includes:

• Food processing facilities
• Cold storage warehouses
• Loading dock areas
• Wet process manufacturing
• Commercial kitchens
• Facilities with daily scrubber cleaning

A cold storage facility in Laverton North operates at 2°C with regular condensation issues. We specified P5-rated textured thermoplastic for all floor marking. The facility manager initially questioned the cost difference versus standard marking. We explained that inadequate slip resistance in a cold, wet environment was a serious injury risk. He'd never considered that the low temperature made slip incidents more likely. That context changed the conversation completely.

High-Traffic Pedestrian Areas

Shopping centres, schools, hospitals, and similar facilities with heavy foot traffic should use minimum P4 rated marking for pedestrian walkways and crossing areas. Even if the areas don't get deliberately wetted, incidental moisture from wet shoes, cleaning, or spills creates slip risk.

Outdoor Applications

Any exterior marking exposed to weather needs higher slip resistance. Rain, dew, frost, all create slip conditions. P4 minimum, P5 recommended.

We've marked outdoor carpark line marking with textured thermoplastic in numerous shopping centres. The slight texture is barely noticeable to drivers but it significantly reduces slip risk for pedestrians walking across marked areas during or after rain.

Areas with Slope or Gradient

Any surface with gradient greater than 1:40 (roughly 1.4 degrees) should be assessed for R rating requirements rather than just P ratings. Even gentle slopes can become slip hazards when wet if the surface has inadequate slip resistance.

Common Slip Resistance Mistakes

We've seen the same mistakes repeatedly over 16 years in this industry:

Using Smooth Paint in Wet Environments

The Braeside example at the start of this article. Smooth waterborne paint in a facility with regular floor cleaning. Recipe for slip incidents. Yet it happens constantly because contractors don't understand AS 4586 requirements or clients specify based purely on appearance rather than safety performance.

Assuming All Thermoplastic Has Good Slip Resistance

Standard smooth thermoplastic achieves roughly P2 to P3 rating. Better than smooth paint but still inadequate for most industrial applications. You specifically need textured thermoplastic to achieve P4 or P5 ratings. Not all thermoplastic products are equal and you can't assume adequate slip resistance without verified test data.

Neglecting to Test After Installation

Materials can achieve specified slip ratings in ideal conditions but real-world installation variables affect performance. Surface contamination, application thickness, cure conditions, all impact final slip resistance. Post-installation verification testing eliminates uncertainty.

A facility in Sunshine West specified P4-rated marking materials. Post-installation testing showed only P3 rating achieved. Investigation revealed surface contamination from oil residue that hadn't been properly removed during prep. The contractor had to strip and reapply at their cost. That expensive lesson reinforced our commitment to thorough surface preparation.

Ignoring Manufacturer Specifications

Aggregate-modified materials require specific application techniques. Mix ratios matter. Application thickness matters. Cure conditions matter. Contractors who ignore manufacturer specifications and apply materials incorrectly often fail to achieve rated slip resistance.

Slip Resistance vs Line Visibility

Here's a design tension: textured surfaces that improve slip resistance can sometimes reduce line visibility slightly compared to smooth glossy markings. The texture scatters light rather than reflecting it directly.

For most applications, this isn't a problem. Textured thermoplastic still provides excellent visibility, especially with proper color contrast. But for applications where maximum visibility is critical (think emergency egress routes or critical safety markings), you need to balance slip resistance and visibility carefully.

Retroreflective materials (those that reflect light back toward the source) maintain good visibility even with textured surfaces. Glass bead embedment in thermoplastic creates retroreflectivity while the base material provides slip resistance. That combination works well for road line marking and outdoor applications.

For indoor warehouse applications, adequate lighting typically matters more than marking reflectivity. If you've got proper overhead lighting, textured P4-rated floor marking provides excellent visibility while maintaining necessary slip resistance.

Compliance and Liability Considerations

Safe Work Australia regulations require employers to minimize slip, trip, and fall risks. That includes ensuring floor surfaces (including floor markings) have adequate slip resistance for their application.

If someone slips on inadequately specified floor marking and gets injured, the facility operator faces potential liability. The contractor who specified and applied inadequate materials might also face liability. Insurance companies look very carefully at material specifications and slip testing data when assessing claims.

We've been called as expert witnesses twice in slip incident investigations. Both cases involved smooth paint marking on warehouse floors with regular cleaning. Both facilities had documentation showing the contractor had been advised to use textured materials but declined based on cost. That documentation didn't help their legal position.

This isn't about creating unnecessary fear. It's about understanding that slip resistance specifications have real safety and legal implications. Getting it right the first time prevents injuries, reduces liability exposure, and avoids costly remediation.

Testing and Verification Options

If you want to verify slip resistance of existing floor markings, you've got several options:

Independent Testing Labs

Organizations like testing and certification bodies can perform on-site slip resistance testing using calibrated equipment. They produce test reports showing actual P ratings or R ratings achieved on your floor surfaces. This verification is particularly valuable for insurance documentation or regulatory compliance demonstration.

Material Manufacturer Data

Reputable manufacturers provide slip resistance test data for their products. These test reports should show AS 4586 testing performed on representative samples. You can use manufacturer data to specify materials with confidence, provided the testing was performed by accredited labs under proper conditions.

Post-Installation Verification

For critical applications or large projects, consider specifying post-installation slip testing as part of the contract. This ensures that materials were applied correctly and achieved specified slip ratings in actual installed conditions. The testing cost is a small percentage of total project cost and provides valuable assurance.

[CTA 3] Concerned about slip resistance on existing floor markings? Upload photos and facility details for an assessment and recommendations on remediation or upgrade options.

Maintaining Slip Resistance Over Time

Surface contamination degrades slip resistance. Oil, grease, hydraulic fluid, dirt accumulation, all reduce surface texture effectiveness and decrease slip ratings over time.

Regular cleaning maintains slip resistance but cleaning methods matter. High-pressure washing can damage textured surfaces and reduce slip resistance. Harsh chemicals can degrade certain marking materials. Following manufacturer recommendations for cleaning and maintenance preserves slip resistance performance.

A facility in Campbellfield noticed declining slip resistance on their textured thermoplastic markings after roughly 18 months. Investigation showed they'd been using a strong solvent-based degreaser during floor cleaning. The solvent was slowly degrading the thermoplastic binder and smoothing the textured surface. They switched to manufacturer-recommended neutral pH cleaners and the problem stabilized.

That's why we provide maintenance guidelines with every industrial warehouse floor marking project. Proper maintenance preserves performance and extends marking lifespan.

5. CONTACT SECTION

Get Proper Slip Resistance Specifications

Line Marking Australia has been providing slip-resistant floor marking for industrial, commercial, and council facilities since 2009. We understand AS 4586 requirements and specify materials appropriate for your application, traffic patterns, and maintenance protocols.

Director: Niel Bennet Phone: 0417 460 236 Email: info@linemarkingaustralia.com.au Address: 240 Plenty Road, Bundoora VIC 3083

Upload your facility plans and cleaning protocols now for proper slip-resistant material specification and detailed quote.

We provide services across all Australian states: Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory, and Northern Territory.