Slip testing after a slip incident
When someone has slipped, insurers, lawyers, property managers and claims assessors often ask for a measured record of the floor. We test the surface in situ and issue a written slip resistance test report. This page explains the testing. It is not legal advice, and it does not speak to the outcome of a claim.
When this visit is typically needed
Slip resistance testing after an incident is usually booked in two situations. The first is soon after a slip-and-fall, while the floor is still in the same condition. The second is when an insurer, lawyer, property manager or claims assessor asks for evidence of the floor's slip resistance as part of a file. In both cases the job is the same: measure the surface, record the conditions, and write a report that another professional can read.
What is tested
The surface is tested in situ with the wet pendulum test in AS 4663:2013. AS 4663:2013 is the method for measuring slip resistance of existing pedestrian surfaces in situ. AS 4586:2013 classifies new pedestrian surface materials, including P ratings from the wet pendulum test. Results are reported against the relevant guidance for that location type. Routes that stay dry can also be measured with the dry floor friction method where that applies.
The technician records the spot, the surface, visible contamination and the readings. Tell us that an incident has occurred so those notes sit with the measurements. We do not attend as an expert witness and we do not offer an opinion on liability.
The output is a test report
You receive a written slip resistance test report, not a certificate. It sets out the method, the readings, the class and how those compare with the published guidance for that kind of location. How those facts are used in a claim is a matter for your insurer and solicitor. A longer note on files and timing is in the guide to slip testing and public liability claims.
Test while the floor is unchanged
Testing should happen as soon as practical, while the floor is in the same condition. Cleaning, traffic and any treatment change the surface, so a later visit may not describe the floor as it was. Signage, mats and cordons can stay in place. Permanent changes to the floor should wait until after the test, unless your insurer or solicitor directs otherwise.
Where we test
This work is available in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Slip testing in Perth by arrangement is quoted per job. Regional New South Wales is quoted on request from Sydney. What a visit costs is set out on slip test cost.
- The site address and the exact area
- When the incident happened, if you know
- Whether the floor has been cleaned or treated since
- Access hours and who will meet the technician
- Who the report should be sent to
Request a visit
Send the site details through the enquiry form, or call 1300 207 915. We will quote the visit from the areas and access you describe.
After an incident: questions
When is slip testing needed after an incident?
It is typically requested after a slip-and-fall, when an insurer, lawyer, property manager or claims assessor asks for evidence of the floor's slip resistance. The visit measures the surface as it is, and the deliverable is a written slip resistance test report.
What do you test after a slip?
The surface is tested in situ with the wet pendulum method in AS 4663:2013, which is the method for measuring slip resistance of existing pedestrian surfaces. Results are reported against the relevant guidance for that location type. Dry internal routes can also be measured with the dry floor friction method where that applies.
Do you issue a certificate?
No. The output is a slip resistance test report. It records the method, the readings, the class and how those compare with the published guidance for that kind of location.
How soon should the floor be tested?
As soon as practical, while the floor is still in the same condition. Cleaning, traffic and any treatment change the surface. Interim controls such as signage or matting can stay in place; permanent changes to the floor should wait until after the test unless your insurer or solicitor directs otherwise.
Book a test while the floor is unchanged
Tell us the site, the area and when we can get on the floor. Call 1300 207 915 if you need to talk it through first.