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This page explains what the Flooring Selection Tool is, how it can help and who should use it.
It also describes why it is important to install appropriate flooring in a workplace.
The flooring selection tool helps to identify the types of flooring that are likely to retain their slip resistant properties when contaminated with some common liquids.
Using the flooring selection tool is optional and it aims to help designers, architects and employers who are working on new-build or refurbishment projects.
The flooring selection tool is not intended to cover all types of flooring or workplaces nor does it consider technical, aesthetic or application specific performance requirements that may also be important in the flooring selection process.
How the floor is installed, maintained and treated will also affect its slip resistant properties in use
Slips and trips are the biggest cause of reported major injuries to workers (40% in 2010/11P) and cause around 40% of injuries to members of the public. Installing suitable flooring in work areas being designed or refurbished is one way to minimise the risk of slips on surfaces likely to become frequently contaminated.
Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 employers must provide floors which are suitable for workers to use safely. An employer may also be the client for construction work. If they make decisions regarding the preparation of, or modification of, a design for flooring they may fall within the definition of a designer and take on the relevant responsibilities.
The Flooring Selection Tool can help you if you are involved in a new-build or refurbishment of a workplace and a risk assessment shows that the flooring is likely to become frequently contaminated. It can help to identify the types of flooring that will retain their slip resistant properties when contaminated with some common liquids.
Installing appropriate flooring in contaminated areas can help to reduce the risk of slips at work. However, other control measures can be used, for example
Where a risk assessment shows that flooring is not likely to become contaminated through use, many types of flooring will be appropriate for installation.
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