Slip test a new floor before handover.

Pendulum test a new floor

A newly installed floor is still a pedestrian surface on a live site. Wet pendulum testing measures selected areas under wet test conditions so you have a recorded result to compare with the project specification. That is the usual brief when a builder needs a slip test before handover.

AS 4663:2013 addresses measurement of existing pedestrian surfaces, which is the typical context once a finish is in place. AS 4586:2013 classification of a new material should not automatically be treated as a current measurement of the floor you have just laid. Tell Premrest the finish, the rooms to assess and any specified rating. How on-site wet pendulum testing works.

Premrest provides this testing in Sydney. Nominate who will arrange keys, loading access and a clear path to the rooms. This website is operated by Premrest; it does not represent a separate local office.

The slip test report

People searching for a slip test certificate or a slip resistance certificate in NSW are usually asking for a written record of the test. Premrest provides a report. It is not an official government certificate, a product warranty, or a statement that the building complies with every applicable requirement.

The report is written to the brief. Useful content typically includes:

• The property and the locations assessed.
• The test method and the conditions recorded on the day.
• The results for those nominated surfaces.

If your certifier, superintendent or client has asked for particular information, include that request in the enquiry so the report can be discussed before the visit. Read more about what the report can include.

NSW occupation certificates and handover

In NSW, a certifier or the project team may ask for evidence that a newly installed floor meets the slip resistance named in the approved documents or the specification. A written test report can be one piece of that evidence. This page does not say that a slip test is required for every occupation certificate, practical completion or occupancy approval.

Ask the certifier or project manager what they want to see, then send that request with your contact message. Premrest can discuss the surfaces and method; it cannot issue an occupation certificate or decide the certifier’s checklist for you.

If the result needs attention

A result relates to the surfaces and conditions assessed. It does not guarantee the floor will never be slippery. Residue from installation, cleaning products, coatings, wear and how the space will be used can all affect a reading.

If the finding is below the specified rating, options to discuss include:

• Checking whether installation or cleaning residue is still on the surface, then considering a further test once it is removed.
• Talking with the installer about the finish that was laid and any specified treatment.
• Discussing a treatment and a retest of the same areas, where that is appropriate for the surface.

None of those steps is guaranteed to change the result. The appropriate next step depends on the cause and the floor. Premrest can discuss floor-care or rectification options after the report; it does not promise a pass on a later visit.

What to send before the visit

Call 1300 207 915 or use the enquiry form with:

• The Sydney address, the rooms and the finish that has been installed.
• Any specified slip rating or clause you need the report to address.
• Access, operating hours and who will meet the tester.
• Any practical completion, occupancy or handover date you already have.

If you are still pricing the testing line in a bid, start with slip testing for builder tenders.