Why Slip Resistance Matters: The Hidden Cost of Falls

Slippery floors aren’t just inconvenient — they’re dangerous. Across Australia, falls are one of the leading causes of injury-related hospitalisations and deaths. Many of these incidents happen on ordinary surfaces like polished tiles, stone stairs, or outdoor areas where traction has worn away.

If you manage a home, business, or public building, slip resistance isn’t just about compliance. It’s about protecting people, avoiding liability, and ensuring every surface you walk on is safe and reliable.

The Real Cost of Slippery Floors

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, there were over 248,000 fall-related hospitalisations in 2023–24. Most of these resulted from slips, trips, or stumbles on the same level — not from ladders or heights, but from smooth, untreated floors.

For property owners, this can mean:

• Injury claims and legal exposure

• Business downtime or reputational damage

• Costly maintenance or insurance implications
  
  

And for homeowners, especially those with elderly family members, the risk is far more personal. One fall can change everything.

Common High-Risk Areas

From our experience restoring and maintaining natural stone across Melbourne, we often see slip hazards in places like:

• Entryways and ramps exposed to rain or high foot traffic

• Bathrooms and pool surrounds where moisture is constant

• Commercial kitchens and lobbies with polished stone or tiles

• Outdoor paths and patios where sealants have worn down
  
  

These areas might look spotless and shiny, but smooth doesn’t always mean safe.

The StillRockin Approach to Safer Floors

At StillRockin, we focus on real-world solutions — not just surface fixes. Our anti-slip flooring services in Melbourne are designed to balance safety, durability, and aesthetics.

We use two main methods, depending on your surface and needs:

1. Anti-Slip Coating

A professional-grade coating is applied to the stone surface, increasing grip while keeping the finish intact. It’s an excellent option for polished indoor surfaces where appearance matters.

2. Micro-Etching Treatment

Unlike coatings, our micro-etch method creates microscopic roughness on the surface itself. This subtle texture boosts traction without visibly altering the stone’s look. It’s particularly effective for natural stone, tiles, and outdoor areas where coatings can wear off quickly.

This approach delivers long-lasting performance and reduces the need for frequent reapplications — making it ideal for both residential and commercial settings.

Understanding Slip Ratings: What’s Considered Safe?

In Australia, slip resistance is measured using a Pendulum Test, and the results are graded from P1 to P5 under AS 4586 and AS 4663 standards.
Here’s a quick guide:

Rating: P1–P2
Slip Resistance: Low
Typical Suitable Areas: Dry indoor areas like living rooms or bedrooms

Rating: P3
Slip Resistance: Moderate
Typical Suitable Areas: Kitchens, bathrooms, light commercial areas

Rating: P4
Slip Resistance: High
Typical Suitable Areas: Ramps, external pathways, pool surrounds

Rating: P5
Slip Resistance: Very High
Typical Suitable Areas: Commercial kitchens, public entries, heavy wet zones

If your floors haven’t been tested or don’t meet the appropriate rating for their use, it’s time to take action.

Why Slip Resistance Matters for Every Property Owner

A proactive approach to surface safety is always cheaper than dealing with the aftermath of a fall. Investing in slip resistance helps you:

• Protect people from preventable injuries

• Maintain compliance with safety standards

• Preserve the look and life of your stone surfaces

• Avoid legal and financial consequences

Take the First Step Toward Safer, Stronger Floors

If you’ve noticed slippery spots, worn sealants, or polished surfaces that have lost grip, we can help. At StillRockin, we don’t just treat the problem — we make sure your floors are compliant, functional, and built for real-world conditions.

Call us on 0425 739 292 or get a free quote online.
Let’s make every step safe — and keep your stone surfaces looking their best for years to come.