Slippery surfaces are a major hazard in a number of commercial and industrial environments, including warehouses, factories and shopping centres. If left untreated, these surfaces can cause serious accidents and injuries, which is why it’s crucial to implement measures to prevent slips and falls.
One solution to this problem: slip-resistant concrete. In this article, the EasyMix team will explore the benefits of slip-resistant concrete and how it works, so you can decide whether you need it for your next project.
What is slip-resistant concrete?
Slip-resistant concrete is a type of concrete that has been treated with a special aggregate to increase its grippiness. The aggregate used in slip-resistant concrete is typically made of materials like aluminium oxide, silicon carbide, or crushed glass. These materials are mixed with the concrete to create a rough texture on the surface, which helps to improve traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Benefits of slip-resistant concrete
One of the key benefits of slip-resistant concrete is, as you might guess, improved safety. By ensuring that those who walk on it can keep their balance, slip-resistant concrete can help to prevent all kinds of accidents and injuries. This is especially important in environments like factories and warehouses where spills and wet conditions are common, and the consequences are far more severe.
A further benefit of slip-resistant concrete is improved durability. The rough texture created by the aggregate helps to make the surface more resistant to wear and tear, which can help to extend the life of the concrete. On top of this, slip-resistant concrete is resistant to abrasion and can withstand heavy foot traffic and machinery, so it’s a win-win!
How slip-resistant concrete works
Essentially, slip-resistant concrete works by increasing the friction between the surface of the concrete and the footwear of those who walk on it. When a person walks or stands on a smooth surface, the soles of their shoes can easily slide around, especially if the surface is wet or oily. Slip-resistant concrete, on the other hand, prevents this because the coarse aggregate introduces a rough texture on the surface that provides much more grip and traction. This allows footwear to grip the surface more effectively, meaning the chances of falls happening are much slimmer.
Why you should consider slip-resistant concrete for your next project
The popularity of slip-resistant concrete has been on the rise as of late, and it’s clear why. It’s a simple yet effective solution for preventing slips and falls in a variety of industrial, commercial and public environments, and offers improved safety and durability – perfect for high traffic areas.
If you’re considering slip-resistant concrete for your next project, EasyMix can help. Our team of concrete specialists and expert mixers have a great deal of experience working with this type of concrete and will be able to advise you on how to best incorporate it into your space. All you have to do is give us a call and a member of our team will be able to walk you through everything you need to know!