Understanding slip resistance requires a basic grasp of friction physics. The coefficient of friction (COF) is the key measurement that determines whether a floor is safe or dangerous. This guide explains the science in plain terms and explains what COF values your floor should achieve.
What Is the Coefficient of Friction?
The coefficient of friction (COF) is a dimensionless number that expresses the ratio of friction force to normal force. In practical terms, it measures how much grip a floor provides. A COF of 0 means perfectly frictionless (impossible to walk on); higher numbers indicate more grip.
Safe COF Values for Floors
Different international standards specify minimum safe COF values. UK standard (BS 7976): minimum Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 36 (equivalent to approximately COF 0.36). US standard (ADA): minimum COF 0.6 for wet floors. Indian standard: follows UK/ISO guidelines. Most polished marble and tile floors have wet COF below 0.2 — dangerously low.
Wet vs Dry COF
Dry friction coefficients are always higher than wet friction coefficients. A floor may be safe when dry but dangerously slippery when wet. Anti-slip treatment specifically targets the wet COF — the critical measurement for bathrooms, kitchens, pool areas, and monsoon conditions.
How Anti-Slip Treatment Improves COF
Oxon’s anti-slip treatment creates microscopic pores in the floor surface that displace water under the foot, increasing the actual contact area between foot (or shoe sole) and floor. This mechanism directly improves the wet COF — typically from below 0.2 to above 0.45 after treatment.
Getting Your Floor Tested
Oxon Technology provides professional slip resistance testing using a calibrated pendulum tester as part of our free site assessment. We measure your floor’s COF before and after treatment, providing documented evidence of the improvement achieved.
Free Site Assessment
Contact Oxon Technology — India’s specialist in anti-slip and anti-skid treatment. Oxon Anti-Slip Treatment | +91 80590 40007