How Anti-Slip Additives Work
Most floor coatings cure smooth, which looks great but can become slippery when wet. By adding non-slip media or sand, the surface gains texture, improving grip and safety.
To create a slip-resistant epoxy or polyurethane floor, anti-slip media is either mixed directly into the coating or broadcast over the wet film and sealed with an additional coat. Specialty epoxy non-slip sand can also be used depending on the application.
This simple step makes a significant difference in areas exposed to water, oils, or heavy foot traffic.
Slip Ratings and Where They Matter
Floor safety is not just best practice — it is regulated. The Building Code of Australia (BCA) requires many floors, ramps, and stairs to meet specific slip-resistance standards. These are measured using P-ratings (P2–P5) or R-ratings (R9–R12).
P2 / R9 Slip Rating
Common examples include indoor tiles, shop floors, and timber flooring.
These floors are easy to clean and vacuum and are typically used in:
- Enclosed shopping centre shops
- Off-street retail where wet shoes may occur
- Supermarkets or spill-prone areas
- Mechanical workshops
- Warehouses
- Walkways
P3 / R10 Slip Rating
Common examples include bathroom tiles and external tiles or pavers.
These floors are slightly harder to mop and commonly used in:
- Cafes and dining areas
- Supermarkets or spill-prone areas
- Mechanical workshops
- Warehouses
- Walkways
- Flat driveways and patios
P4 / R11 Slip Rating
Common examples include hospital bathroom floors, unsealed brick pavers, and stencilled driveways.
These surfaces are harder to clean and typically used in:
Cafe or restaurant back-of-house areas
- Loading docks
- External ramps
- Steep driveways
P5 / R12 Slip Rating
Common examples include external shopping centre ramps, very rough paving tiles, and commercial kitchens exposed to grease.
These floors are extremely difficult to mop and usually cleaned by hosing or pressure washing. They are commonly used in:
- Industrial kitchens
- Food processing facilities
- Fuel refineries
- Butcher shops
- Pool surrounds
- Outdoor sloping areas steeper than 1 in 14
Choosing the correct slip rating depends on location, traffic type, and your ongoing maintenance plan.
Where Our Anti-Slip Media Is Used
Our non-slip floor additives are suitable for:
- Garages and workshops
- Retail shops and supermarkets
- Commercial kitchens and food preparation areas
- Warehouses and loading docks
- Driveways, patios, and pool surrounds
- Hospitals, aged-care facilities, and hotels
Whatever the project, selecting the right anti-slip media helps ensure your floor remains safe, compliant, and durable.
We have supplied high-quality anti-slip additives to contractors, builders, and DIY users for years and can help you choose the correct product for your coating system, floor type, and safety requirements.
Shop online or visit our store to view our full range of anti-slip media, sand, and grit additives for epoxy and polyurethane coatings.
Note: Slip rating information provided is a general guide only. Always confirm requirements with your local council or a certified building professional.
