Slip ratings explained
Slip ratings describe how much a surface contributes to the risk of someone slipping. This guide explains the ratings you'll see on product sheets, specifications and test reports.
What is a P rating?
A P rating is a slip resistance classification from the wet pendulum test under AS 4586-2013. It runs from P0 (least slip resistant) to P5 (most slip resistant).
What is BPN?
BPN stands for British Pendulum Number, the value recorded by the pendulum friction tester. The average BPN across a set of tests determines the P rating.
What are D0 and D1?
D ratings come from the dry floor friction test under AS 4586:
D1 means a mean coefficient of friction of 0.40 or more
D0 means a mean coefficient of friction below 0.40
D ratings only apply to dry floors. We currently offer wet pendulum testing only.
What are R ratings?
R ratings (R9 to R13) come from the oil-wet inclining platform test, a laboratory test on new material samples. They often appear on tile and flooring product sheets. R ratings can't be measured on site, so installed floors are tested with the pendulum.
Which rating does my area need?
It depends on where the surface is and how it's used. The National Construction Code sets minimum classifications for stair treads, nosing strips, landings and ramps. SA HB 198:2014 gives recommended classifications for other areas, from dry internal floors to pool surrounds. As a general rule, the wetter, steeper or busier the area, the higher the rating it needs.
Tap a rating to see where it's typically used
Typical applications
P0 · below 12 BPN
Not recommended for areas where people walk when wet.
Contribution to slip risk: Extremely high
Typical applications
P1 · 12 to 24 BPN
Dry internal areas such as lift lobbies and common areas of public buildings.
Contribution to slip risk: Very high
Typical applications
P2 · 25 to 34 BPN
Hotel apartment bathrooms, ensuites, kitchens and laundries.
Contribution to slip risk: High
Typical applications
P3 · 35 to 44 BPN
Dry stair treads, nosings and landings; dry ramps up to 1:14; undercover car parks.
Contribution to slip risk: Moderate
Typical applications
P4 · 45 to 54 BPN
Stair treads, nosings and landings that may get wet; wet ramps up to 1:14; dry ramps steeper than 1:14; pool surrounds.
Contribution to slip risk: Low
Typical applications
P5 · above 54 BPN
Commercial kitchens, undercover loading docks, wet ramps steeper than 1:14.
Contribution to slip risk: Very low
Classifications from AS 4586-2013 (Slider 96). Typical applications are examples only, not a complete list, and are based on the National Construction Code and SA HB 198:2014. The rating an area needs depends on where it is and how it's used.
Why ratings change over time
A rating describes a surface at the time it was tested. Foot traffic wears surfaces smooth. Sealers and polishes can reduce grip. Cleaning residue and contamination build up. That's why a new floor's product rating doesn't guarantee how it performs years later, and why existing floors should be retested.
Common questions
What is a P rating?
A P rating is a slip resistance classification from the wet pendulum test under AS 4586, from P0 (least slip resistant) to P5 (most slip resistant).
What does BPN mean?
BPN stands for British Pendulum Number, the value recorded by the pendulum friction tester. Higher numbers mean more grip. The mean BPN across a set of swings determines a surface's P rating under AS 4586.
What P rating does a pool surround need?
SA HB 198:2014 recommends P4 for swimming pool surrounds, or an equivalent barefoot classification. Your specification and certifier set the final requirement for your project.
What's the difference between P ratings and R ratings?
P ratings come from the wet pendulum test and can be measured on site. R ratings (R9 to R13) come from a laboratory oil-wet ramp test on product samples. Installed floors can't be given an R rating on site, so they're tested with the pendulum.
Can a floor's slip rating change over time?
Yes. Wear, sealers, polishes, cleaning residue and contamination all change how much grip a surface has. A rating describes the surface on the day it was tested, so floors in busy or wet areas should be retested.
Don't Risk It, Slip Test It
Want to know your floor's rating?
Tell us about your property or project and we'll come back with the right test and a quote.
