Are Anti-slip Floor Coatings Really Necessary On Commercial Sites?
Slips and trips are one of the most common causes of workplace injuries — which often leads people to ask:
“Do we actually need anti-slip floor coatings, or is it just best practice?”
It’s a sensible question. Not every surface needs treating, but in the right environment, anti-slip coatings play a critical role in safety, compliance, and risk reduction.
At C&R Ltd, we help clients understand when anti-slip coatings are necessary, where they add real value, and how they should be specified.
What anti-slip floor coatings are designed to do.
Anti-slip coatings are designed to increase surface grip underfoot — particularly in areas where floors become wet, greasy, or contaminated.
Rather than relying on signage or behavioural controls alone, they provide a physical reduction in slip risk by improving traction.
This is especially important in environments where conditions change throughout the day.
Where slip risks most commonly occur.
Slip hazards are rarely evenly spread across a site. They tend to appear in predictable locations such as entrances, loading bays, pedestrian walkways, plant rooms, ramps, and wash-down areas.
Any surface exposed to water, oils, spillages, cleaning processes, or weather is a potential risk area — even if incidents haven’t yet been reported.
Are anti-slip coatings a legal requirement.
In most cases, anti-slip coatings aren’t legally mandated by name.
However, employers and site operators do have a duty to manage slip risks under health and safety legislation. Where a surface presents a foreseeable risk, reasonable measures are expected to be taken.
In many environments, an anti-slip coating is one of the most effective and proportionate controls available.
Why signage and mats aren’t always enough.
Temporary measures like warning signs and entrance mats can help, but they rely heavily on user behaviour and maintenance.
Once mats shift, signs are ignored, or conditions extend beyond their coverage, the underlying risk remains.
Anti-slip coatings address the surface itself, providing a consistent level of protection regardless of foot traffic or weather conditions.
Choosing the right anti-slip system.
Not all anti-slip coatings are the same. Performance depends on the environment, foot traffic levels, cleaning regime, and required durability.
Some systems are designed for light pedestrian use, while others are suitable for heavy-duty industrial environments or external exposure.
Correct specification ensures the surface remains safe without becoming difficult to clean or maintain.
The importance of preparation and application..
As with line marking and floor coatings, preparation is critical.
Poorly prepared surfaces can lead to premature failure, uneven grip, or patchy performance. Proper cleaning, profiling, and controlled application ensure the coating performs as intended.
At C&R, anti-slip coatings are installed as part of a planned process — not a quick fix.
The importance of preparation and application..
Every site is assessed individually before recommendations are made.
We consider surface type, contamination risks, pedestrian routes, cleaning methods, and operational constraints to determine whether an anti-slip coating is necessary — and which system is appropriate.
The result is a practical solution that improves safety without disrupting how the site operates.
Conclusion.
Anti-slip floor coatings aren’t always required everywhere — but where slip risks exist, they are one of the most effective ways to manage them.
By treating the surface itself, sites can significantly reduce incidents, improve confidence underfoot, and demonstrate a proactive approach to safety.
If you’re unsure whether anti-slip coatings are needed on your site, C&R Ltd can help assess the risk and advise on the most suitable solution.
Why Choose C&R.
As one of the UK’s leading specialists in line marking, surface preparation, coatings, and cleaning, C&R delivers expert advice, professional results, and long-lasting performance nationwide.
Over 30 Years’ Experience
Trusted nationwide by major brands and local authorities.
Fully Accredited & Insured
Working to UK safety and environmental standards.
Complete Start-to-Finish Service
From design and preparation to marking and aftercare.
Nationwide Coverage
Responsive teams operating across England, Scotland, and Wales.