Safety is paramount, especially when it comes to surfaces that we walk upon daily. While aesthetics and durability often steal the limelight in the construction industry, slip-resistance is an equally critical factor, especially in wet or moist conditions. Enter NOVOWOOD®: setting new standards in safety with its impressive anti-slip certifications.
NOVOWOOD®’s Commitment to Safety
NOVOWOOD®, a renowned name in the Wood Plastic Composites (WPC) sector, isn’t just dedicated to sustainability and aesthetics; it’s equally committed to ensuring safety. This commitment is evident in the brand’s efforts to obtain certifications that testify to the slipperiness class of its materials.
One might wonder: Why is this so significant? The answer lies in the numerous accidents reported yearly due to slippery surfaces. These mishaps can lead to minor bruises, severe fractures, and at times, life-altering injuries. Hence, a product that can offer slip-resistance, especially when wet, is a game-changer.
Diving Deep into the Certifications
NOVOWOOD®’s products have been rigorously tested and have obtained certifications that attest to the material’s slipperiness class both when shod (C) and barefoot (R11). This dual certification ensures safety in multiple scenarios, be it walking on a deck with shoes or strolling barefoot on a wet patio.
The certification, issued by the Laboratorio Prove Autorizzato dal Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei Trasporti, is not just a stamp of approval; it’s an assurance that the product has been scrutinized under strict conditions and has come out triumphant. Furthermore, NOVOWOOD®’s materials have passed the slip tests on wet surfaces, adhering to the rigorous BRCA standards.
The Tortus Test: A Closer Look
You might have come across multiple anti-slip certifications in the market, but what sets NOVOWOOD® apart is its adherence to the Tortus test. But what exactly is this test?
The Tortus test, in essence, is a dynamic method of assessing the slip resistance of floor surfaces. It employs a machine, aptly named the Tortus, which moves across a surface at a consistent speed. The machine is equipped with a rubber slider that mimics the sole of a shoe. As the Tortus glides over the surface, it measures the friction between the rubber slider and the floor. This gives a precise coefficient of friction (COF) value, determining the surface’s slip resistance.
The brilliance of the Tortus test lies in its ability to simulate real-world walking conditions. Unlike other tests, it doesn’t just measure slip resistance in a stationary state but does so while in motion, providing more accurate and relevant results.
NOVOWOOD®’s decision to use the Tortus test for its products emphasises the brand’s commitment to offering the highest safety standards. By ensuring its products adhere to the benchmarks set by this dynamic test, NOVOWOOD® assures its customers of a safe and slip-resistant experience.
Wrapping Up
In the world of decking, cladding, and outdoor surfaces, NOVOWOOD® is not just a brand; it’s a statement. A statement that screams quality, aesthetics, sustainability, and above all, safety. With its impressive anti-slip certifications and adherence to the stringent Tortus test, NOVOWOOD® has firmly established itself as a frontrunner in providing safe and durable solutions for diverse environments.
For homeowners, builders, and architects, this is more than just information. It’s an assurance. An assurance that with NOVOWOOD®, you’re not just investing in a product; you’re investing in safety, peace of mind, and a legacy of trust.
