AS 4586 is the Australian Standard for classifying the slip resistance of new pedestrian surface materials: tiles, stone, vinyl, timber, coatings, gratings, tactile indicators and any other product that people will walk on. The classification tells a specifier, certifier or builder whether the product will meet the P rating a location requires before it is bought and installed.
Sliptest Australia's NATA-accredited laboratory on the Gold Coast classifies products for manufacturers, importers, distributors, architects and builders across Australia. Samples are couriered to us, tested to the standard, and reported with the NATA endorsement that gives the result standing with the NCC, HB 198 and every Australian certifier.
Because we are an independent testing laboratory, not a flooring supplier, our classification carries no commercial interest in the result.
AS 4586 contains four test methods, each producing its own classification. They are not interchangeable and there is no formula to convert one to another. The wet pendulum P classification is the one the NCC and most Australian specifications call for.
The required classification depends on where the product will be used. The NCC sets minimums for stairs, ramps and landings in new buildings. For everything else, HB 198:2014 gives recommended classifications that most specifications adopt. A product should be classified against the most demanding location it will be installed in.
| Location | Wet pendulum classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ramp steeper than 1:14 | P4 dry, P5 wet | NCC |
| Ramp between 1:14 and 1:20 | P3 dry, P4 wet | NCC |
| Stair treads, nosings and landings | P3 dry, P4 wet | NCC |
| External colonnades, walkways, pedestrian crossings | P4 | HB 198 |
| Entry foyers, wet | P4 | HB 198 |
| Entry foyers, dry | P3 | HB 198 |
| Shopping centre malls and food courts | P3 | HB 198 |
| Commercial kitchens, loading docks | P5 | HB 198 |
| Swimming pool ramps and stairs into water | P5 (Slider 55), also class C | HB 198 |
| Swimming pool surrounds, communal showers | P4 (Slider 55), also class B | HB 198 |
| Public toilets and amenities | P3 | HB 198 |
Product type, finish, intended locations and any specification you are working to. We confirm which method and slider apply.
Number of pieces, size and preparation. Tiles are tested on full pieces, coatings and vinyls on prepared panels. Different colours or finishes are separate classifications.
Our NATA-accredited laboratory is on the Gold Coast, Queensland. Samples are logged, conditioned and tested in a controlled environment to the standard.
Wet pendulum with Slider 96 and, where the product will be used barefoot, Slider 55. Dry floor friction on request. Results are calculated and classified exactly as AS 4586 sets out.
You receive a NATA-endorsed classification report you can attach to data sheets, tenders, specifications and handover documentation.
P rating classification for tiles, stone, vinyl, timber, coatings, gratings and tactile indicators sold in Australia.
Independent confirmation that a specified product meets the P rating for each location before it is documented.
Evidence for certifiers that the selected product complies, before installation and again at handover.
Current Australian classifications for imported ranges that only carry R ratings or overseas data.
Before and after classification of treated samples to substantiate performance claims.
Product approval for aquatic centres, transport infrastructure and public buildings.
Tell us the product, finish and where it will be used. We will confirm the method, sample requirements, price and turnaround within one business day.
For urgent enquiries call 1300 SLIPTEST.
Send us the product details and we will confirm samples, method and turnaround within one business day.
