Product Overview

Summary: This Slip Resistance Testing Safe Operating Procedure sets out a clear, repeatable method for assessing floor and surface slip resistance in line with Australian standards. It helps duty holders verify that walking surfaces are fit for purpose, reducing slip, trip and fall incidents while demonstrating robust WHS due diligence.

Slips, trips and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and public liability claims across Australia, particularly in high-traffic environments such as shopping centres, hospitals, aged care facilities, schools and transport hubs. This Slip Resistance Testing Safe Operating Procedure provides a structured, evidence-based approach for assessing the slip resistance of new and existing floor surfaces, ramps, stairs and external walkways. It guides users through the correct selection and use of test methods and equipment, ensuring results are reliable, traceable and aligned with Australian Standards.

Beyond simply taking measurements, the SOP embeds slip resistance testing into your broader WHS and risk management framework. It outlines when to test (e.g. post-installation, after maintenance, following incidents or complaints), how to document and interpret results against relevant criteria, and how to escalate where surfaces do not meet the required slip resistance classifications. By implementing this procedure, organisations can proactively manage slip hazards, support defensible decision-making in design and procurement, and demonstrate compliance with their primary duty of care under Australian WHS legislation and applicable building codes.

Key Benefits

• Reduce slip, trip and fall incidents by systematically identifying and verifying floor surface slip resistance.
• Ensure compliance with Australian Standards, WHS legislation and National Construction Code requirements for pedestrian surfaces.
• Standardise testing methods, documentation and reporting across sites, contractors and internal teams.
• Support defensible risk assessments and insurance claims with clear, auditable test records and decision criteria.
• Inform procurement, maintenance and cleaning practices by linking test results to corrective actions and ongoing monitoring.

Who is this for?

• WHS Managers
• Facility Managers
• Building Owners and Strata Managers
• Construction Project Managers
• Site Supervisors
• Quality Assurance Managers
• Maintenance Managers
• Risk and Compliance Officers
• Retail and Hospitality Managers
• Aged Care and Healthcare Facility Managers

Hazards Addressed

• Slips on wet or contaminated floor surfaces
• Falls on stairs, ramps and external walkways
• Loss of traction due to inappropriate flooring materials or finishes
• Increased risk for vulnerable persons (e.g. elderly, mobility-impaired, hospital patients)
• Secondary injuries arising from slip-related incidents (sprains, fractures, head injuries)

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Abbreviations (including slip resistance classifications)
• 3.0 Roles and Responsibilities
• 4.0 Applicable Legislation, Standards and Codes of Practice
• 5.0 Competency, Training and Authorisation Requirements
• 6.0 Equipment Selection, Calibration and Maintenance (e.g. pendulum, slider types, tribometers)
• 7.0 Pre-Test Planning and Risk Assessment
• 8.0 Site Preparation and Environmental Conditions (dry, wet, contaminants)
• 9.0 Test Methodology for New Surfaces (AS 4586)
• 10.0 Test Methodology for Existing Surfaces (AS 4663)
• 11.0 Sampling Strategy and Test Location Selection
• 12.0 Data Recording, Calculations and Quality Control Checks
• 13.0 Interpretation of Results and Compliance Criteria
• 14.0 Reporting Format and Recordkeeping Requirements
• 15.0 Non-Conformance Management and Corrective Actions
• 16.0 Integration with Cleaning, Maintenance and Refurbishment Programs
• 17.0 Review Triggers, Retesting Frequency and Continuous Improvement
• 18.0 References and Supporting Documents
• 19.0 Appendices – Sample Checklists, Test Forms and Example Reports

Legislation & References

• AS 4586: Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials
• AS 4663: Slip resistance measurement of existing pedestrian surfaces
• AS/NZS 3661.1 (superseded but often referenced): Slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces
• National Construction Code (NCC) – Performance Requirements for safe movement and access
• Safe Work Australia – Model Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Safe Work Australia – Model Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011
• Safe Work Australia – Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities
• AS/NZS ISO 31000: Risk management – Guidelines