Slip Resistant Tile Floor – What is the criteria for specifying “slip resistant” ceramic floor tile?
ANSWER – Slip resistance is measured in different ways, and there is some controversy in terms of what is a true indication of a safe surface. Testing Background: The ASTM C1028 Static Coefficient of Friction test has been the norm for testing slip resistance in the Canadian and USA ceramic tile and stone industry for many years. Most agencies call out codes and recommendations based on this test. Manufacturers use this test to imply the slip resistance of their tiles. The test had been withdrawn from ASTM testing standards, although it was eventually renewed. It has been reported by various testing laboratories and the Ceramic Tile Institute of America (CTIOA) that the C 1028 testing is unreliable in determining if a ceramic tile or stone surface will have a tendency to be slippery or not. The CTIOA is now recommending the allegedly more reliable Tortus Dynamic Test or the British Pendulum Test for the field testing of tile to determine if they have a tendency to be slippery or not. T
