Slips and trips cause over 30% of workplace injuries in the UK. Understanding safety flooring regulations helps ensure compliance and prevent accidents.
The Legal Framework
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Employers must ensure employee health and safety, including providing safe floors.
Workplace Regulations 1992 – Floors must be suitable for purpose, free from hazards, and properly maintained.
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – Requires risk assessment including floor slipperiness.
HSE Guidance
The HSE endorses the pendulum test for measuring slip resistance, producing a Pendulum Test Value (PTV).
PTV 0-24: High slip potential
PTV 25-35: Moderate slip potential
PTV 36+: Low slip potential
For most commercial applications, flooring should achieve PTV 36 or above in expected conditions.
Sector-Specific Requirements
Different sectors have specific guidance for food and drink, healthcare, care homes, and swimming pools.
Compliance in Practice
1. Assess risks – Where does contamination occur? What contaminants? Who is at risk?
2. Specify appropriate flooring – Match flooring to the risk assessment.
3. Manage contamination – Entrance matting, spill response, drainage.
4. Maintain properly – Correct cleaning maintains slip resistance.
5. Monitor and review – Check condition regularly.
Documentation
Maintain risk assessments, specifications, test results, cleaning procedures, and training records to demonstrate due diligence.
Getting Expert Help
Contact APA Contract Flooring for advice on compliant safety flooring.