In spaces like restaurants, which are designed for public use and heavy footfall, slip resistance is
a big consideration.
Constant foot traffic over areas which may be subject to food and drink spillages, as well as grease, means that the high risk of slips and falls must be mitigated. The answer is using the correct flooring materials, which conform to the necessary slip resistance standards.
This article looks as slip resistance requirements by zone – from kitchens to dining areas, entrances and receptions – before looking at testing methods used.
Key slip resistance requirements by zone
We’ll take a look at the various areas around a restaurant, and how much slip resistance the flooring requires:
Commercial kitchens & pot-wash areas
The most hazardous zones in any restaurant, due to the constant risk of water, oil and food waste exposure.
High-slip resistance is essential, and flooring with R11 or R12 (DIN 51130) ratings are recommended; often achieved with safety vinyl or high-texture custom tiles for restaurants.
Dining areas & bars
These areas are less exposed to grease, but food and drink spills are common. Flooring must also balance safety with aesthetics to create a pleasant environment.
Flooring with R10 or PTV ≥36 ratings is recommended to provide moderate slip resistance and safety for guests and staff.
Entrances & ramps
High-traffic, moisture-prone areas require robust slip resistance, often with R11- or R12-rated flooring.
Ramps and areas near doors, in particular, require enhanced slip resistance to make access safe.
Receptions & dry areas
These are low-risk, dry zones, and so slip resistance requirements are less demanding. R( or R10 rated flooring is recommended.
Testing methods and rating values
We will now provide an overview of the safety ratings used for flooring. Several recognised testing methods are used to produce ratings including:
Pendulum Test Value (PTV)
This test measures slip potential in wet and dry conditions. A PTV score of 36 or above is generally considered low risk in wet environments, making it a key benchmark for restaurant flooring.
R-Rating (DIN 51130)
This system measures slip resistance underfoot in oily conditions while wearing shoes. Ratings range from R9 (low resistance) to R13 (very high resistance).
Coefficient of Friction (COF)
COF measures the grip between a surface and footwear. A minimum of 0.4 in wet conditions is recommended for safe commercial flooring.