Abstract:

The author discusses the recent criticisms of the slip resistance standard AS3661 for pedestrian surfaces and considers its deficiences. He expresses his views about the standard and its relationship to the Building Code of Australia 1996 and briefly looks at the British and American perspective in relation to slip resistance tests. While the selection of appropriate compliance criteria and the provision of adequate slip resistance guidelines are complex matters, some pertinent issues are raised for wider consideration. He suggests that specifiers who are uncertain about whether to use certain products in particular situations should seek confirmation from tile manufacturers or independent experts.