Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common causes of workplace injuries in the U.S.[1] While safety training, good housekeeping practices, adequate lighting and routine maintenance are essential, surface traction is often an overlooked factor in accident prevention.
Non-skid powder coatings provide an effective, long-term solution for improving traction on walking and working surfaces. By creating a durable, slip-resistant finish, these coatings help organizations enhance workplace safety, reduce injury risks and minimize costs associated with workers' compensation claims, downtime and lost productivity.
The Evolution of Non-Skid Solutions: From Sand-Covered Decks to Advanced Slip-Resistant Coatings
The need for better traction is not new. For centuries, sailors spread sand on wet wooden ship decks to improve footing in challenging conditions. Today, that same principle has evolved into advanced non-skid technologies designed to deliver consistent, long-lasting slip resistance across a variety of industrial and commercial environments.
Modern non-skid powder coatings incorporate specially engineered additives that create a textured surface, increasing friction and helping to reduce the likelihood of accidents. Unlike temporary anti-slip treatments or tapes that can wear out and require frequent replacement, powder coatings provide durable, integrated slip resistance that remains effective even in demanding operating conditions.
Common Applications for Non-Skid Powder Coatings
Non-skid powder coatings are widely used in environments where safety, durability and performance are critical. Common applications include:
- Industrial walkways and platforms
- Access ladders and gangways
- Stairs, ramps and sidewalk transitions
- Vehicle step surfaces
- Docks, decks and piers
- Manufacturing and warehouse facilities
- Food processing plants
- Chemical processing facilities
These coatings are particularly valuable in areas exposed to moisture, grease, oils or other contaminants that can create hazardous walking conditions.
How Non-Skid Powder Coatings Improve Workplace Safety
Slip-resistant surfaces are an important component of a comprehensive workplace safety program. By improving traction where employees walk, work and access equipment, non-skid powder coatings help reduce the likelihood of slips and falls in areas with hazardous conditions.
Another advantage is their versatility. Non-skid coatings can be formulated for a wide range of operating conditions, including wet, greasy and outdoor environments, helping facilities maintain effective slip resistance regardless of environmental challenges.
PPG ENVIROCRON® HTE Non-Skid Powder Coating Solution
For organizations seeking durable, high-performance anti-slip solutions, PPG ENVIROCRON® HTE non-skid powder coatings combine enhanced traction with long-term protective performance.
These advanced powder coatings deliver textured, slip-resistant surfaces while maintaining excellent mechanical and chemical resistance. They also offer strong aesthetic performance, uniform finishes available in a broad range of colors and gloss levels, allowing manufacturers to meet both functional safety and design requirements.
Independent third-party testing has demonstrated that PPG Envirocron HTE non-skid powder coatings achieve a dynamic coefficient of friction greater than 0.55 in interior dry and wet conditions, as well as exterior wet and greasy environments, in accordance with ANSI A326.3 non-skid performance standards.*[JM1] The coatings also exceed the requirements of ASTM F1694-14 and ASTM F2048-00 standards.**[JM2]
Key Benefits of PPG Envirocron HTE Non-Skid Powder Coatings
- Excellent first-pass transfer efficiency of 85% or greater
- Reduced material waste and improved application efficiency
- Easy application and consistent finish quality
- Standard particle size designed for improved application performance
- ANSI A326.3 compliant for dry, wet and greasy environments
- Strong mechanical and chemical durability
- Available in durable and ultra-durable formulations
- Broad range of colors and gloss levels to meet design requirements
Why Non-Skid Powder Coatings Are a Smart Investment
Beyond improving workplace safety, non-skid powder coatings can help organizations reduce accident-related costs, support compliance initiatives and extend the service life of coated surfaces. Their durability and low-maintenance performance make them a cost-effective solution for facilities seeking reliable, long-term slip protection. By incorporating slip-resistant coatings such as PPG Envirocron HTE non-skid powder coatings into a comprehensive safety program, organizations can help reduce workplace injuries, support regulatory compliance and protect both employees and operational productivity in safer environments for employees every day.
Learn more about PPG Envirocron THE non-skid powder coatings > https://www.ppg.com/en-US/industrialcoatings/powder-coatings/envirocron-hte-non-skid
Testing and performance data available upon request. Refer to product documentation for complete specifications and application recommendations.
* Performance certified by Walkway Management Group.
** ASTM F1694-14 Standard Guide For Composing Walkways Surface Investigation, Evaluation, and Incident Report Forms for Slips, Stumbles, Trips, and Falls and ASTM F2048-00 Standard Practice for Reporting Slip Resistance Test Results.
[1] Source: https://www.nsc.org/workplace/safety-topics/slips-trips-and-falls/slips-trips-and-falls-home?srsltid=AfmBOopqCNTpO9Ffv-vLdMy-LKV3smppXWX-HEQu8uwGGp_2bmAS__tJ#/