Putting SENSTEC to the test

In simple terms, the Pendulum is a swinging arm. The bottom of the pendulum is fitted with a rubber foot. When the pendulum is released from its starting position, the rubber foot strikes the surface with the anti-slip properties. The distance travelled by the pendulum after striking the sample determines the Pendulum Test Value (PTV). This swinging motion is carried out multiple times before a PTV value can be calculated.

The Pendulum Tester is universally recognised as an effective floor slip resistance measuring device. It is the subject of many international studies and is the preferred test method of the UK Slip Resistance Group (UKSRG) and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). Owing to its size and portability, it can be used both on site and for laboratory testing.

Our UKAS accredited laboratory results report an average PTV value of 48 for the SENSTEC Anti-Slip design, placing the product in the Low Slip Potential, the best classification possible.

This outstanding result was achieved with the addition of a soaping agent to replicate a true showering environment, even though this was over and above the standard requirements.

The Ramp Test involves a person walking forwards and backwards on a test sample at a predefined tempo, as determined by a metronome. A water and contaminant solution is pumped over the sample, at the same time as the apparatus is continuously tilted. The person is securely harnessed from above and although he/she is aware that the angle of inclination is constantly increasing, they are not aware of the actual angle.

Throughout the test, the person continuously walks forward and backward. The test ends when the person slips. The process is repeated multiple times with multiple people, with all measurements pooled to give a final result.

Due to the size and operation of the equipment, this method is for laboratory testing only. Our UKAS-accredited laboratory testing reported an average result of 30°, placing it in category C, the best classification possible.

This meant that after extensive testing with the ramp and pendulum, our design could be placed in the best classifications available. But what about the all-important user experience?