Why Your Last Test Might Be Outdated
Slip resistance doesn’t last forever—and a test result only applies to the exact batch tested. A different batch, even if it’s the same product, must be tested separately. Wear, cleaning changes, coatings, or weather can all shift performance, so retest regularly.
Surface performance changes over time, and between batches. Passing an AS 4663–2013 test last year doesn’t guarantee compliance today.
If the floor has been sealed, re-polished, cleaned differently, worn down, or replaced with a new batch of product, the slip resistance can be very different.
Australian Standards make it clear: a slip resistance certificate is only valid for the specific batch tested. Even if the product’s style, manufacturer, size, and finish are identical, a different production batch requires its own test. Minor manufacturing variations can change the microtexture enough to shift the P-rating.
We regularly see surfaces drop 1–2 P-ratings due to:
- High foot traffic
- Changed cleaning chemicals
- New sealers or finishes
- Outdoor exposure and surface breakdown
- Variation between manufacturing batches
WHS obligations require safe surfaces to be maintained, not just tested once. Periodic retesting provides proof you’re actively managing risk, and batch-by-batch testing ensures product certificates are valid.
Suggested retest frequencies:
- Shopping centres / retail foyers: 6–12 months
- Schools and aged care: annually
- Surfaces treated or coated: test post-treatment and again within 12 months
- Each new batch of product: test before installation
Zerofal makes retesting straightforward. We track your previous results, flag at-risk areas, and clearly identify if new tests are needed for replacement or additional batches.
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Book your next AS 4663–2013 test now—don’t rely on an old certificate or a different batch’s results.
Explore more
What should suppliers test before outdoor surfaces are installed?
Outdoor pedestrian products should be tested before installation where wet use is expected. AS 4586:2013 testing helps confirm suitability before site risk begins.
When should wet pendulum testing be used instead of dry floor testing?
Wet pendulum and dry floor testing answer different questions. The correct method depends on whether the surface is expected to be wet or dry in real use.
Why does slip risk increase in winter?
Winter exposes surfaces that may perform adequately when dry but become slippery when wet, contaminated or slow to dry. Testing confirms real performance.
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