Re: Australian Standards Committee BD/094 – Pedestrian Slip Resistance of Flooring Surfaces in the Revision of Handbook 197.

The task of the above Committee is to assess how best to measure and determine the accurate slip resistance of a wide range of flooring materials including natural stone and ceramic tile.

After lengthy discussion the Committee has before it Table 3 entitled, ‘Pedestrian Area Selection Guide for Normal Conditions. Minimum Pendulum or Ramp Recommendation for Specific Locations.’

Table 3 (in its current form) contains contentious material that could persuade specifiers and consumers that use of materials with a polished surface in certain residential locations is unsafe. Previously the standard primarily covered commercial applications.

Ultimately, the Table will be published in Handbook 197 (HB 197) which will contain the Committee’s findings in relation to this subject. The Committee consists of approximately 15 individuals who share a variety of concerns and opinions.

The Australian Stone Advisory Association (ASAA) is represented by the Chair of the Committee Richard Bowman. Richard will eventually write HB 197.

This is an extremely complex subject, given that local government (councils) need to provide potential occupants with guidance regarding floor covering selection.

Currently the Committee’s recommendations are not favourable in relation to stone or tile. Many of you rely on the sale of these materials to specifiers, builders, home owners and resellers of tile and stone.

It is therefore in your interest to read Richard’s article Ramping up the Slip Debate, (click on the link) or visit the homepage of www.infotile.com.au (News Section) [now Advice under Archived Articles].

The Committee in question meet next Monday in Sydney. One of the prime subjects for debate will relate to the inclusion of Table 3 in HB 197. Richard is opposed to the inclusion of residential floors in this Table and he will enter an objection on behalf of ASAA. Gary Jones will also register an objection on behalf of the Australian Tile Council (ATC).

As Richard is responsible for writing HB 197, I am confident that it will be written in such a way that materials, which do not meet certain recommendations, will still be capable of being used in traditional locations.

I urge you to seek a thorough understanding of this vital issue. It’s imperative that home owners retain the freedom to use appropriate natural stone and ceramic tile materials in residential environments. These materials have a long history of successful use in both residential and commercial locations.

If you wish to make a specific comment please send your email to tonys@infotile.com.au. Copies of all submissions will be given to Richard prior to the Committee meeting. By registering you support for ASAA, the ATC and Richard’s position you indicate to the Committee the need for them to take great care in relation to making correct and well balanced decisions.

If you require any additional information, please give me a call on (03) 9888 2246.