Wet Pendulum Slip Resistance Test
The primary method for measuring floor slip resistance in Australia. Accurate, reliable P-ratings for your floor surfaces, tested to Australian Standards AS 4586 and AS 4663.
What Is the Wet Pendulum Test?
The wet pendulum test is the primary and most widely accepted method for measuring floor slip resistance in Australia. It is the test method specified in both AS 4586:2013 (for new surface materials) and AS 4663:2013 (for existing installed surfaces), and is referenced by the Building Code of Australia and the National Construction Code.
The test uses a calibrated pendulum device, originally developed in the United Kingdom and known as the British Pendulum Tester, to simulate the action of a foot slipping on a wet floor surface. The pendulum swings a standardised rubber slider across a wetted section of the floor, and the energy lost through friction during that contact is measured and recorded as a British Pendulum Number (BPN).
The resulting BPN is then classified into a P-rating, ranging from P0 (very slippery, high risk) to P5 (excellent slip resistance). This P-rating system provides a clear, standardised way to communicate how slip-resistant a floor surface is under wet conditions, making it straightforward for property owners, facility managers, architects, and builders to assess whether a surface is suitable for its intended use.
At Surface Test Australia, Greg Collins uses a properly calibrated wet pendulum tester and follows the precise methodology laid out in the Australian Standards. Every test is conducted on-site at your premises, providing results that reflect the actual condition of your floors as they are used day to day.
How the Wet Pendulum Test Works
The testing process is methodical and precise, designed to produce repeatable, reliable results. Here is what happens when Greg arrives at your premises to conduct a wet pendulum test.
Surface Preparation
The floor area to be tested is cleaned to remove any loose debris or contaminants. The surface is then wetted with clean water to simulate real-world wet conditions such as rain tracking, spills, or mopping.
Pendulum Setup
The calibrated pendulum device is positioned on the floor surface and levelled. A standardised rubber slider (either Slider 96 for smooth surfaces or Slider 55 for profiled and rough surfaces) is attached to the pendulum arm.
Pendulum Swing
The pendulum arm is released from a fixed height. As it swings, the rubber slider contacts the wet floor surface over a set distance. The friction between the slider and the floor slows the pendulum, and the amount of deceleration is recorded on a calibrated scale.
Measurement and Recording
Multiple swings are performed at each test location, and the readings are averaged to produce a British Pendulum Number (BPN). Each test location is documented with photographs for the final report.
P-Rating Classification
The averaged BPN is classified into a P-rating according to AS 4586. This rating provides a clear, standardised assessment of the floor's slip resistance under wet conditions.
Understanding P-Ratings
The P-rating scale classifies floor surfaces by their wet slip resistance. Higher ratings indicate better slip resistance. The table below shows each classification, the corresponding BPN range, and typical applications.
| P-Rating | BPN Range | Slip Resistance | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| P0 | 0 – 11 | Very slippery | Not suitable for pedestrian use when wet |
| P1 | 12 – 19 | Low slip resistance | Dry internal areas only |
| P2 | 20 – 27 | Moderate slip resistance | Dry internal areas, low-risk environments |
| P3 | 28 – 34 | Good slip resistance | General indoor areas, corridors, lobbies, retail |
| P4 | 35 – 44 | High slip resistance | Wet areas, bathrooms, entrances, ramps, commercial kitchens |
| P5 | 45+ | Excellent slip resistance | Pool surrounds, external ramps, high-risk wet areas, commercial kitchens |
P-ratings are determined according to AS 4586:2013. The minimum required P-rating depends on the specific environment and its intended use.
When Do You Need a Wet Pendulum Test?
The wet pendulum test is applicable in a wide range of scenarios. Whether you are a facility manager, property owner, builder, or body corporate manager, there are many situations where professional wet pendulum testing is essential or highly recommended.
New Floor Installations
Verify that newly laid tiles, vinyl, epoxy, or polished concrete meet the P-rating specified in the building plans and required by the BCA/NCC before handover.
Annual Compliance Audits
Floor slip resistance degrades over time. Annual testing establishes an ongoing compliance record and catches surfaces that have deteriorated below safe levels.
After a Slip Incident
If someone has slipped or fallen on your premises, a professional test provides objective data about the floor's condition and supports your response to any claim or investigation.
Property Due Diligence
Before purchasing or leasing a commercial property, slip testing identifies any floor surfaces that may require treatment or replacement, informing your investment decision.
After Floor Treatments
Verify that any anti-slip treatment, coating, or resurfacing work has achieved the required P-rating. Some treatments can wear off over time and need re-testing.
Workplace Safety Programs
Demonstrate proactive safety management to WorkSafe Victoria. Regular slip testing is a key component of a comprehensive floor safety management program.
Australian Standards for Wet Pendulum Testing
The wet pendulum test is governed by two key Australian Standards. Understanding which standard applies to your situation ensures you receive the right type of testing and reporting.
AS 4586:2013 — New Surface Materials
This standard applies to the classification of new pedestrian surface materials. It is used primarily during the manufacturing, specification, and installation phase. Architects and builders reference AS 4586 when specifying floor materials to ensure they meet the required P-rating for the intended use. The standard covers the wet pendulum test method, the oil-wet ramp test method, and the dry floor friction test method.
AS 4663:2013 — Existing Surfaces
This standard applies to measuring the slip resistance of floors that are already installed and in use. It is the standard most relevant to property owners, facility managers, and body corporates who need to verify that their existing floors still meet safety requirements. Greg follows AS 4663 methodology when testing your in-situ floor surfaces.
Our Other Services
The wet pendulum test is often part of a comprehensive floor safety assessment. Explore our other testing and reporting services.
Dry Floor Friction Test
Measure the coefficient of friction under dry conditions to identify surfaces that have become dangerously smooth through wear or polishing.
Learn moreComprehensive Slip Test Report
Receive a detailed report with P-ratings, photographic documentation, compliance assessment, and actionable recommendations for every surface tested.
Learn moreAvailable Across Melbourne
Greg provides professional wet pendulum slip testing across Melbourne and Greater Victoria. Select your suburb to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wet pendulum test?
What is a dry floor friction test?
What does the slip test report include?
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