There is no globally unified standard for the anti slip grade of anti slip tape, and currently there are two mainstream grading methods in the market: the European system and the American system.
European system: DIN 51130 standard (R-grade)
This is currently the most common anti slip grade standard in the domestic market. It is divided into anti-skid performance based on R values (R9-R13), with higher values indicating stronger anti-skid capabilities.
• R9- R10: Suitable for dry indoor environments with slight slip risk, such as offices, shops, etc.
• R11: Suitable for areas with moderate slip risk, which may come into contact with water and oil. For example, factory workshops, kitchens, etc.
• R12: Suitable for areas with higher slip risk. The tape, usually in black/yellow warning colors, has a grade of R12.
• R13: The highest anti slip level, suitable for extreme environments with extremely high slip risks. For example, slopes, areas around heavy machinery, and areas with severe oil pollution.
Products that comply with this standard are usually clearly labeled, such as "anti slip grade R13, compliant with EN 13552" or "manufactured according to DIN 51130 anti slip (R group) R13 standard".
American system: NFSI and coefficient of friction (COF)
The certification system of the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) in the United States is another important reference. The core indicator is the static coefficient of friction (SCOF) under wet conditions.
• High anti slip standard: NFSI defines SCOF ≥ 0.60 as the "High Traction" standard.
• Actual effect: According to NFSI research, floors that meet this standard can reduce slip accidents in humid environments by 50% to 90%.
Application scenario division
According to the wear resistance and anti slip grade, the selection and application of adhesive tape are as follows:
• Industrial and Heavy Duty Environment (R12-R13/Heavy Mineral Sand)
Used for factory assembly line pedals, warehouse loading and unloading ramps, forklift access, steel structure ladders, ship decks, etc. This type of scenario involves oil stains, iron filings, or heavy crushing, requiring thick substrate and large particle alumina tape, often accompanied by black and yellow warning strips.
• Commercial and Public Places (R10-R11/Medium High COF)
Used for mall stairs, hospital corridors, school walkways, hotel bathing areas, and underground garage ramps. Pay attention to balancing walking comfort and safety, choose waterproof and mildew proof models for wet and slippery areas, and choose fluorescent/reflective guidance for emergency evacuation in dark areas.
• Home and skin friendly scenes (no sand PEVA or fine sand)
Used for shower room floors, bathtub edges, wooden staircase steps, balconies. When walking barefoot, it is necessary to avoid coarse particles that may cause discomfort to the feet. Soft PEVA sand belts or fine quartz sand belts should be used more often, which should be non-toxic, mold proof, and tear off without damaging the original ground.
• Transportation and Special Equipment
Used for car pedals, crane maintenance ladders, and fitness equipment (treadmills/skateboards). Most of them are aluminum foil flexible substrates that need to adhere to curved surfaces and withstand certain temperature differences.
When making a purchase, it is recommended to first consider the substrate: PVC+mineral sand for outdoor/heavy industry, aluminum foil base for irregular surfaces, and PEVA sand free for barefoot areas; Before construction, it is necessary to ensure that the ground is free of oil and dry, and if necessary, apply primer to prevent edge warping.
The service life of most high-quality anti slip tapes is one to five years, depending on pedestrian flow, environmental conditions, and maintenance.