The Science Behind Slip Resistance
What Makes a Surface Safe Even When Wet?
Slip accidents are one of the most common causes of injuries in homes, hotels, hospitals, swimming pools, and public spaces. Wet floors, smooth tiles, and humid conditions can quickly turn any surface into a safety hazard — unless it has been scientifically tested and certified for slip resistance.
Understanding the science behind slip resistance helps explain why professional anti-slip solutions such as SWISSGriP® provide long-term safety even in wet environments.
Why Slip Resistance Matters
Bathrooms, showers, pool decks, steam rooms, kitchens, and public walkways are constantly exposed to water, soap, oils, and humidity. These conditions dramatically reduce friction between the foot and the floor.
A safe surface must maintain grip even when:
- The floor is wet
- People walk barefoot
- Footwear is used
- Soap or cleaning chemicals are present
Understanding Slip Ratings
Across the world, several scientific systems are used to measure slip resistance. While the names differ, they all measure the same factor — the friction between the foot and the surface.
PTV
Pendulum Test Value used in UK and EU standards.
R Ratings
German DIN 51130 scale ranging from R9 to R13.
ABC Ratings
German DIN 51097 barefoot slip classification.
P Ratings
Australian wet pendulum classification P1 to P5.
In all systems, higher numbers indicate higher slip resistance and safer flooring.
Dubai’s Official Standard: The Pendulum Test (PTV)
This test is specified in:
- BS EN 16165:2021
- BS EN 13036-4
- Dubai Building Code
- Dubai Municipality safety guidelines
It simulates real walking movement across the floor to determine the actual slip risk.
Why the Pendulum Test Is Trusted Worldwide
- Highly accurate scientific measurement
- Repeatable laboratory results
- Simulates real human heel movement
- Works in wet and dry conditions
- Applicable to new and existing floors
How the Pendulum Test Works
A weighted pendulum arm swings across the surface of the floor. Attached to the arm is a rubber slider that replicates human heel contact.
Two types of sliders are used:
- Slider 96 — represents footwear
- Slider 55 — represents barefoot conditions
When the slider contacts the floor, friction slows the pendulum. The remaining movement is recorded as the Pendulum Test Value (PTV).
Dubai Building Code Slip Requirements
Indoor Dry Areas
| Surface Type | Required PTV |
|---|---|
| Level surfaces | PTV 15–35 |
| Inclined <5% | PTV 15–35 |
| Inclined ≥5% | PTV ≥ 35 |
Outdoor & Wet Areas
| Surface Type | Required PTV |
|---|---|
| Level surfaces | PTV 35–45 |
| Inclined <5% | PTV 35–45 |
| Inclined ≥5% | PTV ≥ 45 |
High-Risk Wet Areas
| Location | Required PTV |
|---|---|
| Street pavements | ≥ 45 |
| Swimming pools | ≥ 45 |
| Showers | ≥ 45 |
| Toilets & wet rooms | ≥ 45 |
Where Many Floors Fail
Tiles that appear safe in showrooms may become extremely slippery once installed, particularly when exposed to:
- Cleaning agents
- Soap and shampoo
- Water and humidity
- Barefoot traffic
- Kitchen oils
Over time, many surfaces lose their natural slip resistance.
SWISSGriP® Certified Slip Resistance
SWISSGriP® Anti-Slip Coatings are engineered to meet and exceed Dubai Building Code safety requirements.
| Test | Result | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Slider 55 (Barefoot) | PTV 54 | ≥ 45 |
| Slider 96 (Footwear) | PTV 76 | ≥ 45 |
Where SWISSGriP® Is Used
- 5-star hotel bathrooms
- Resort swimming pools
- Hospitals and healthcare centres
- Nursing homes
- Commercial kitchens
- Residential bathrooms and balconies
International Certifications
| Country | Standard | Institution | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | BS EN 16165:2021 | SATRA | Best-in-Class PTV |
| Germany | DIN 51097 | TÜV Rheinland | Class C |
| Germany | DIN 51130 | TÜV Rheinland | R10–R12 |
Final Thoughts
Slip resistance is not just a technical measurement — it is a critical safety requirement.
Certified anti-slip coatings like SWISSGriP® ensure surfaces remain safe, compliant, and reliable even when wet, soapy, or heavily used.
From luxury hotels to family homes, SWISSGriP® provides:
- Reliable grip
- Long-lasting safety
- Dubai Building Code compliance
- Peace of mind for every user
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