Slips and trips are among the most common causes of injury across workplaces, public spaces, and commercial settings — yet one of the easiest to prevent. The challenge? You can’t see a dangerous floor with the naked eye.

Many facilities assume their floors are safe, especially if they “look” clean or “feel” okay underfoot. But without a professional slip test, it’s impossible to know how much grip your flooring really offers — or how much risk you’re exposing people to every day.

What Is A PTV and Why Does It Matter?

The Pendulum Test Value (PTV) is the trusted method for measuring the slip resistance of a floor. It gives a clear numerical rating that determines how likely someone is to slip under specific conditions — dry, wet, or contaminated.

Here’s why that number matters more than most people realise:

• PTV 36 – Approx. 1 in 1,000,000 chance of slipping

• PTV 34 – Risk increases to 1 in 100,000

• PTV 29 – Now 1 in 10,000

• PTV 27 – Drops to 1 in 200

• PTV 24 – A serious 1 in 20

• PTV 19 – A very high 1 in 2 risk

Just a few points’ difference on the PTV scale can turn a low-risk floor into a legal liability. That’s why HSE guidelines recommend a minimum PTV of 36 in wet or potentially contaminated conditions.

Why You Should Have Your Floors Slip Tested

Getting your floor professionally tested isn’t just about ticking a box — it’s about:

• Identifying hidden dangers: Even clean-looking floors can be deceptively slippery.

• Preventing injuries: Small fixes based on test results (like cleaning, treatment, or matting) can significantly reduce risk.

• Protecting your business: In the event of a claim, having documented PTV readings shows you’ve taken responsible steps.

• Meeting compliance: Many industries and insurers now expect routine slip testing as part of health and safety protocols.

Whether you manage a care home, shop floor, office, warehouse, manufacturing site, or school — knowing your PTV could be the difference between a safe environment and a costly accident.