Barefoot Slip Rating Advice (DIN 51097):
A, B or C rating
These guidelines recommend using tiles that comply with specific barefoot slip rating standard for floors to ensure safety and reduce the risk of accidents.
When selecting tiles for a commercial project, it’s crucial to consider the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) anti-slip guidelines.
For areas where people will be barefoot, especially those exposed to water (such as showers, pools, or changing rooms), the slip resistance of tiles is rigorously tested. This is done by placing tiles on an inclined surface and determining their performance under wet conditions. The tiles are then classified into three slip-resistance rating groups: A, B, and C.
• Group A: Suitable for areas with minimal slip risk, such as dry changing rooms or areas with only occasional moisture.
• Group B: Recommended for moderately wet zones, such as poolside areas or walkways near water.
• Group C: Essential for areas that are consistently wet or submerged, like the floors of swimming pools or shower areas, where higher slip resistance is required.
To assist in choosing the appropriate tiles for barefoot areas, the table below provides a guide on the recommended slip ratings based on the environment and the level of exposure to water.
Barefoot Slip Resistance (DIN 51097) Guidelines
| Classification Group | Lower Limit Value | Upper Limit Value | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 12° | 18° | • Barefoot hallways (mainly dry) • Individual and group changing rooms with lockers • Pool floors in the non-swimmer areas, where the water level exceeds 800mm |
| B | >18° | 24° | All of the above, plus: • Barefoot hallways, if not classified in A • Showers • Area surrounding the disinfectant sprayers • Pool surrounds • Pool floor in the non-swimmer areas, where the water level is lower than 800mm • Pool floor in the non-swimmer areas in the tide effect pool • Lift slab floors • Paddling pools • Steps leading into the water • Steps, of maximum 1m width with hand rails, leading into the water • Steps outside of the pool area |
| C | >24° | – | All of the above, plus: • Steps leading into the water, if not classified in B • Foot baths • Inclined pool borders |
If you require any further advice or assistance please contact us on 0345 130 2241 or email sales@grestec.co.uk and someone from our technical department will be happy to help.