Complete Guide to Non-Slip Tapes for Safety and Protection
Some of the most efficient methods for promoting safety are often among the simplest. An example of this is non-slip tape, which can be utilized quickly and easily and is inexpensive. Non Slip Tapes can be used to prevent slips, trips, and falls in any workplace or home environment. You can use it in places as diverse as a construction site or in your home bathroom. Non-slip tape has an adhesive backing that can be applied to floors and stairs to enhance grip in high-risk areas. This guide provides information on non-slip tape to help you make the best decision for protecting yourself, your property, and your peace of mind.
What is Non-Slip Tape?
In its most basic form, non-slip tape consists of a pressure-sensitive tape with an engineered surface designed to create high friction between shoes and walking surfaces. Its surface is coated with a layer of abrasive mineral aggregate (such as silicon carbide or aluminum oxide), making it “gritty,” or textured, to increase the coefficient of friction between foot and surface.
The Reason Slip Prevention Is Important
Slip and fall accidents are troubling when we see the number of slip and fall accidents occurring each year. Not only are they one of the most common workplace injuries, but they also result in many lost workdays, insurance claims, and serious physical pain for victims. Aside from the workplace environment, slips and falls at home and in public places create thousands of emergency room visits each year. Anti-slip tape can provide a good first line of defense against slip, trip, and fall hazards and demonstrates the need to proactively protect people from harm caused by preventable risks, which is an integral part of a strong safety culture.
A Comparison of Non-Slip Tape Types and Materials
There are different types of non-slip tape, and selecting the best type for your situation is crucial for maximizing the benefits of the tape over time.
1. Abrasive (Grit) Tape
- Type: The most common type of non-slip tape, abrasive (grit) tape is made of a thick layer of abrasive mineral granules that have been bonded to a durable adhesive backing.
- Use: This type of tape is preferred for use in workplaces where employees are likely to encounter slippery conditions due to heavy use of foot traffic and/or extremely oily or wet surfaces, e.g., factory floors, warehouse stairways, loading docks, etc.
- Warning: Grit tape is extremely durable; however, the rough surface can cause extreme irritation to bare feet and to knees if one kneels on it. Grit tape also tends to wear out the soles of footwear more quickly than other types of non-slip tape.
2. Anti-Fatigue Safety Tape
- Description: A thicker, cushioned version of resilient Non Slip Tape that uses closed-cell foam or gel materials.
- Best Uses: Standing workstations, areas behind commercial counters, assembly line areas, or home workshops. It reduces fatigue in the feet and legs and has slip-resistant properties.
- Consideration: Anti-Fatigue Safety Tape has the benefit of both preventing slips and protecting from fatigue, but it may not last as long in high vehicle traffic areas.
3. Resilient/Comfort Tape
- Description: Textured vinyl, rubber, or PVC with a raised design provides traction on many surfaces and has a softer, more forgiving feel.
- Best Uses: Commercial kitchens, food service areas, retail spaces, pool decks, gym areas, and home use (stairway, bathtub). Easy on your shoes and comfortable when you are on your feet for an extended amount of time.
- Consideration: It is still water resistant though maybe not as effective as grit tape in extreme grease or oil conditions.
4. Specialty Tapes:
- Photoluminescent Tape: Photoluminescent tape absorbs light during power outages and darkness; it is used to mark safe egress paths in stairwells and hallways.
- Reflective Tape: Reflective tape contains glass beads, which reflect light; it is used to safely mark hazards in warehouses or on outdoor steps.
Important Features and Criteria to Consider When Choosing Non-Slip Tape
When choosing non-slip tape, you should take into consideration the following:
- Durability and Substrate: When used outdoors, choose a tape that is UV resistant & water resistant.
- Adhesive Strength: A strong permanent acrylic adhesive is needed for areas with high traffic. A removable adhesive may be more beneficial if used in an area that requires temporary usage or on sensitive flooring.

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