slipresistance

Slip resistance refers to the resistance to slipping of a surface or footwear when walking or moving. It is a key aspect of floor safety in industrial, commercial, and residential settings. Slip resistance depends on the friction between the shoe sole and the surface and is affected by surface texture, material, cleanliness, moisture, and contaminants.

Friction is typically quantified by the coefficient of friction (COF), with static COF measured when there is no motion and dynamic COF measured during movement. Tests use devices such as tribometers, pendulum testers, or inclined-plane methods to determine COF under various conditions (dry, wet, or oily). Standards and guidelines from organizations such as ASTM, ISO, and EN define testing methods and acceptable ranges. Because slip risk is highly context-dependent, acceptable values vary with environment, footwear, and task.

Several factors influence slip resistance. Surface texture depth and pattern, material hardness, wear, and microtexture affect grip. Presence of water, oil, soap, or cleaning residues can reduce friction. Temperature, load, and direction of travel also play a role. Footwear characteristics, including tread pattern, sole material, and heel design, further determine overall performance.

Design and materials play a role in improving slip resistance. Textured or abrasive flooring, slip-resistant coatings, embedded aggregates, and drainage features can enhance grip. Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential to preserve friction properties. For stairs and ramps, features such as contrasting nosings, handrails, and uniform surface finish contribute to safety.

Limitations exist: no surface is completely slip-proof, and slip risk depends on the interaction of surface, footwear, and user behavior.