HSE Pendulum Slip Resistance Test
Pendulum floor slip resistance testing is the science of measuring the coefficient of friction (COF) of flooring surfaces.
Slip resistance testing is usually desired by the building’s owner or manager when there has been a report of a slip accident or when there has been a report of a near accident. Flooring is tested using a Pendulum Slip Resistance tester Research has confirmed the pendulum to be a reliable and accurate test.
It is the only test preferred by the HSE and is used to discover if there is a high risk for slip and fall accidents on it, either dry and/or (most often) when wet with water or lubricated with other contaminants such as kitchen grease, oil, etc. (90% of slip injuries happen on wet floors) The test results are given in PTV (Pendulum Test Values) a table has been included in the ‘Ultimate Guide To Pendulum Floor Slip Resistance Testing’ to download that explains in more detail how the PTV is interpreted into slip risk. When a pedestrian heel strikes a wet floor a fluid film is created between them, this can cause a slip.
SETUP & CALIBRATION
The Pendulum is placed on the floor being tested and is calibrated to produce a 0 result without an impact.
DROP & IMPACT
Once the pendulum has been calibrated, the surface can now be tested for its COF (coefficient of friction). The pendulum swings around making contact as it passes the floor.
RESULTS & RESET
The pendulum swings through and produces a result. This process is then repeated multiple times to ensure an accurate result.
This test works in wet conditions because it generates a similar fluid film between the slider and the floor. It can be used to accurately test the slip potential on clean and dry or contaminated floors. Other Slip tests are sometimes used such as ‘Sled Tests’ such as ‘Slip Alert’ and ‘Tortus’ these tests measure a floors surface friction and can only be used if the surface is clean and dry. The HSE recommends that such tests are not used to measure how slippery a wet or contaminated floor is, it has shown that under these conditions these type of tests may show inaccurate and misleading results in these conditions.
Get in contact regarding Pendulum Slip Testing!
"We have been working with Zeroslip UK Ltd for 2 years now, and we plan to continue this partnership for the foreseeable future. Zeroslip UK Ltd through the direction of Jonathan Rogers, provides high quality and cost effective slip testing, supported by advice and solution services."
HSE Manager
UK Greetings Ltd
"After initially approaching Zeroslip we found them to be professional and efficient at analysing our businesses needs and finding a solution. A test patch was performed and the work completed overnight to a high standard to ensure minimum disruption to our business. The use of the pendulum test is essential for our health and safety needs in todays society. We now use Zeroslip chemicals on a daily basis to maintain our floors."
Ian Mitchell
The Woodland Spa
"When it comes to slip testing and reducing the risk of slips there are numerous companies out there, however Zero Slip UK actually help you make it happen in a no nonsense, sensible approach. I found them to be professional and efficient and I look forward to working with them going forward."
Stewart McAleese - MD
JSM Safety Solutions
"I have worked with Jonathan Rogers at Zeroslip UK Ltd for over a year now and found the company to be both professional and efficient in all aspects of their work. As Operations Director in Active Nation, I look forward to continuing our association with your company in the future."
Kevin Lane - Operations Director
Active Nation
At Trinity Leeds Shopping centre we had an issue with slip resistance in an older area of the centre. We had previously tried different cleaning regimes, chemicals, and equipment but with no real change to the slip testing results. After consultation with Zeroslip UK they identified a solution which involved deep cleaning the area and applying a coating which would improve the slip resistance. The effect was immediate and dramatic.