Improving safety with 3M slip-resistant tapes and treads

Workplace slips, trips and falls can happen in any type of industry, from retail and healthcare to manufacturing and construction.

The latest SafeWork statistics show that in 2022-23, there were over 30,000 injury compensation claims due to slips, trips and falls. This number represented nearly 22% of all serious compensation claims in that year, and resulted in median worktime losses of almost nine weeks.

These types of incidents can also cost businesses money. In 2022-23, the claims led to median compensation payouts of $16,600. This makes it essential for employers to take steps to protect their workers, and lower the risks.

Decreasing the risk of slips, trips and falls.

While slips, trips and falls may occur due to working at height, they also commonly happen on staircases and at ground level when surfaces are slippery, uneven or cluttered. The risk can be decreased through good lighting, prompt cleaning up of spills, removal of clutter and power cords, clear procedures and training, and slip-resistant footwear.

But even with the best of intentions, slips, trips and falls can still happen – due to sudden spillages, rain, or even a moment’s distraction or inattention! One way to maximise risk reduction is to add traction to surfaces with high-quality traction tapes such as 3M™ Safety-Walk™ Slip-Resistant Tapes and Treads.

How 3M’s anti-slip tapes and treads improve safety?

3M’s Safety-Walk™ adhesive tapes and treads work by adding traction to floors and other surfaces, helping prevent slip, trip and fall accidents. These products offer an easy and effective alternative to expensive surface treatments. They require no special skills or expertise to install. The tapes and treads can be installed on all kinds of indoor and outdoor surfaces in the workplace – for example flat areas, steps and stairs, ladders, ramps, boats, vehicles, machinery, wet areas and many more.

3M has incorporated some unique technologies within its Safety-Walk™ range. These include:

• 3M™ Controltac™ Film technology: allowing the product to be repositioned on the surface before its final pressing down (e.g. with a roller), in turn saving on re-work.
• 3M™ Comply™ Adhesive technology: which refers to air release channels in the adhesive. This feature enables a bubble-free application and a smooth adhesion to the surface. It helps prevent water creeping underneath the product as well.

Other features of the range include:

• Superior pressure-sensitive surface adhesion.
• Excellent durability and long-lasting performance.
• High traction capabilities, meeting or even exceeding the highest ratings for slip resistance.
• Available in many sizes, textiles, and colours (including multi-colour and printed) for different purposes.
• ‘Conformable’ product options for use on uneven surfaces.
• Compliance with Australian Standard AS4586 for slip-resistance of pedestrian surface materials.

Why it matters?

Supeap Leng, Marketing Activation Manager Australia & New Zealand for the Commercial Branding and Transportation Division, says it’s crucial to select the right product for your needs, according to the Pendulum Slip Test or ‘P’ rating (P1 to P5). For example, while a product with a P1 rating may be suitable for a flat dry surface, a P5 tape may be required for a very steep ramp or for areas that frequently get wet.  He describes the Safety-Walk™ range as a small investment to make in terms of the benefits received.

“Since you can install the products yourself it saves on the cost of hiring specialists while still maximising safety,” he says.

Available at Blackwoods – Your safety equipment partner.

Blackwoods is proud to offer 3M as part of our commitment to keeping Australian workers safe. As the country’s largest provider of industrial and safety equipment, we’ve got everything you need to protect your team. Shop the 3M™ Safety-Walk™ Slip-Resistant Tapes and Treads range online.

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