Global Safe Technologies' sustainable slip resistance - opportunity for innovation
The author, Carl Strautins from Slip Check Pty Ltd has
recently presented this article at the world congress on quality ceramic
tiles in Spain.
So, why sustainable slip resistance is so important? Ceramic tiles along
with most flooring surfaces can become less slip resistant with use. This
can occur rapidly such that some relatively new products can become hazardous
within a short period of time. So how does the specifier ensure that the
surface will remain safe for its intended use? Simply specifying using HB197
will not ensure a surface is safe. This has serious implications when
specifying on factory fresh test results.
This article uncovers the truth using the latest scientific results about the
sustainability and what else should be considered when a tile or other surface
like anti slip coated surface is specified. While the surface at its original
condition passes the relevant standard requirements it can wear off very quickly
due to heavy traffic, regular harsh mechanical cleaning or become ineffective
due to lack of proper cleaning.
So, how should someone who has to specify a surface should go about it?
While the answer is not simple the accelerated wear test result of the proposed
surface material - sustainability test - can greatly assist with the decision.
Once the test result is available a much clearer picture can be gained about
how the proposed surface will retain its slip resistive qualities over a period
of time.
This can save large amount of money on replacement or application of remedial
treatments of surfaces and reduces any potential issues between the specifier
and the client. Organisations that design, construct and procure their own
buildings recognise that sustainable slip resistant surfaces help to mitigate
their risk of slip and fall incidents, as well as possible litigation.
This test can also be used during resurfacing projects when the correct remedial
treatment could be a more cost effective and better suited solution than ripping
up the surface and replacing with another.
It is worth to seek out product manufacturers, remedial treatment suppliers whose
product has undergone accelerated wear testing to ensure that the product is fit
for purpose over the lifecycle of the building.
To read the full article please visit http://www.globalsafe.com.au/slip_fall_prevention_australia.php.
For further information contact:
Global Safe Technologies (Aust) Pty Ltd
Address: 26 Hassall Street, Smithfield, NSW, 2164
Phone: 02 9609 4....
Fax: 02 9609 4....
Web: www.globalsafe.com.au
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