AS 4586:2013 Measures Product Performance Under Controlled Conditions

AS 4586:2013 applies to new surfaces prior to installation or occupancy approval.

Unlike AS 4663 (existing surfaces), AS 4586:2013 measures product performance under laboratory-controlled conditions.

It does not assess wear.
It assesses capability.

This distinction is critical for builders, certifiers and suppliers.

The Most Common Mistake: Testing the Raw Tile

Slip performance can materially change after:

• Sealing
• Contamination
• Anti-slip coatings
• Polishing
• Surface treatments

Testing the raw sample does not certify the finished installation.

Certifiers frequently request evidence that the tested sample reflects the final installed configuration.

If coatings are applied after testing, the classification may no longer be valid.

Understanding Classifications Properly

Wet Pendulum classifications:

• P0 to P5 (P5 highest resistance)

Dry Floor Friction classifications:

• D0 – fail
• D1 – pass (≥ 0.40 coefficient of friction)

Laboratory testing includes:

• Conditioned sliders
• Controlled water application
• Multiple test runs
• Mean BPN calculation
• Calibration verification

Certification is traceable and documented.

Assumptions are not.

Why Late Booking Creates Risk

Testing frequently occurs during the final construction phase.

If results are lower than expected:

• Re-coating may be required
• Alternative surface treatment may be needed
• Certification may be delayed
• Floor replacement or Floor remediation considered

Booking testing 2–3 weeks before handover provides contingency.

In high-value projects, that buffer is commercially significant.

Phase testing on projects during building cycle.

Zerofal’s Laboratory Approach

Zerofal conducts laboratory testing in accordance with:

• AS 4586:2013
• Wet Pendulum method
• Dry Floor Friction method

We provide:

• Calibrated testing equipment
• Traceable reporting
• Photographic documentation
• National freight support

Testing early protects timelines.

Testing correctly protects compliance.