Q: I’ve been asked to provide a slip test result. What is required and why?
A:
The preferred slip test method of the HSE is the BS 7976-2 Pendulum test which produces a PTV (Pendulum Test Value) graded as a low (36+PTV), moderate (25-35PTV) or high (24-PTV) risk of slipping.
The Workplace Health Safety and Welfare Regs '92 states that floors shall be suitable for their purpose, and shall not be slippery so as to expose a person to a risk to their health and safety. The Management of H&S at Work Regs '99 states that employers shall make suitable and sufficient assessment of the risk to health and safety of both employees and those in connection with their undertaking. The H&S at Work Act '74 states more generally that it shall be the duty of every employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health safety and welfare of those affected by their work.
In today’s litigious society those failing to comply with statutory requirements and exposing pedestrians to slippery floors are likely to find themselves paying compensation, legal fees and increased insurance premiums as a result. It is now common, and indeed sensible, that end users require evidence that the surface is suitably slip resistant following any flooring works.
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