Roughness Tester

An indication of slipperiness in water­ contaminated conditions may be simply obtained by measuring the surface roughness of flooring materials. Roughness measurements may also be used to monitor changes in floor surface characteristics, such as wear. Research has shown that measurement of the Rz parameter allows slipperiness to be predicted for a range of common materials. Rz is a measure of total surface roughness, calculated as the mean of several peak ­to­ valley measurements. To test microscopic roughness Oltco use the surtronic duo pictured below.

Picture 1. Surtronic Duo Roughness Tester

When surface micro roughness data is used to compliment pendulum test data, the roughness results should be interpreted using the information reproduced below.

Picture 2. Surtronic Duo Roughness Tester

Where only roughness data is available, it should be used in conjunction with the Slips Assessment Tool (SAT). The HSE and HSL have produced a PC­based software package to assess the slip potential presented by level pedestrian walkway surfaces. The SAT prompts the user to collect surface micro roughness data from the test area, using a hand­held meter. The SAT compliments the surface micro roughness data (Rz) with other relevant information from the pedestrian slip potential model. This includes the causes of floor surface contamination, the regimes used to clean the floor surface (both in terms of their effectiveness and frequency), the footwear types worn in the area, along with associated human factors and environmental factors. On completion, a slip risk classification is supplied to the user; this gives an indication of the potential for a slip. SAT is designed to assist in the decision­ making process when considering the risk of slipping in a defined area, and can be used iteratively to show the influence of different control measures. However, it should not be relied upon when considering the performance of just the flooring; in this instance a suitable pendulum test test should be used (see slip testing). To purchase the surtronic duo and use the SAT tool please see the links below. 

Picture 3. Link to the HSE Slip Assessment Tool

Picture 4. Link to Purchase Surtronic Duo

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