Ensuring building safety is crucial, and one of the most effective ways to enhance safety in stairwells is by using anti-slip tape. Slip and fall accidents in stairwells are common and can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. According to the National Safety Council, falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths. Anti-slip tape provides an easy, cost-effective solution to reduce these risks.

Understanding the Importance of Stairwell Safety

Stairwells, often trafficked by many people daily, pose significant safety risks if not properly maintained.

Falls in stairwells are alarmingly frequent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over a million people suffer falls on stairs annually in the U.S. alone. A substantial portion of these falls results in severe injuries such as fractures and head trauma.

Ignoring stairwell safety can lead to dire consequences. Injuries from falls can range from minor bruises to major breaks and head injuries. Furthermore, building owners can face legal liabilities and financial repercussions if found negligent in maintaining safe stairwells.

Benefits of Anti-Slip Tape in Stairwells

Anti-slip tape offers several advantages, making it an excellent choice for enhancing stairwell safety.

The textured surface of anti-slip tape provides superior traction. Whether shoes are wet from rain or icy from snow, the extra grip ensures more secure footing, significantly reducing the chance of slipping.

Anti-slip tape is a budget-friendly safety solution. Unlike more elaborate installations, it costs less upfront while offering durable performance. High-quality anti-slip tapes can withstand heavy traffic and harsh conditions, making them a long-lasting safety investment.

Choosing the Right Anti-Slip Tape

Selecting the right anti-slip tape is pivotal for maximising safety and effectiveness.

When choosing anti-slip tape, consider:

• Texture: Make sure the tape has an appropriate level of roughness for effective grip.
• Color: High-visibility colors enhance safety, especially in poorly lit stairwells.
• Adhesion Strength: Ensure the tape can firmly adhere to the stair surface to prevent it from peeling off over time.

It’s essential to choose anti-slip tape that complies with safety standards and regulations, such as those outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Compliance ensures the tape provides sufficient slip resistance and overall safety.

Installation and Maintenance of Anti-Slip Tape

Proper installation and regular maintenance are crucial for the effectiveness and longevity of anti-slip tape.

1. Clean the Surface: Ensure the stair surface is free of dust, grease, and moisture.
2. Measure and Cut: Measure the width and length of the steps and cut the tape to the appropriate size.
3. Apply the Tape: Peel off the backing and carefully place the tape onto the step, pressing firmly to secure adhesion.
4. Smooth Out Air Bubbles: Use a roller or similar tool to remove any air bubbles for a tight fit.

• Regular Inspections: Check the tape periodically for signs of wear or damage.
• Clean the Tape: Keep the tape free of dirt and debris to maintain its traction properties.
• Replace Worn Tape: Replace any sections that are peeling or have lost their grip to ensure continuous safety.

Real Life Example

No Skidding was called on to supply replacement anti-slip tape for every stairwell in a large energy consultant facility. This facility develops innovative solutions for the global electricity and medical industries, helping to empower a sustainable future. Safety is paramount in a facility like this, especially considering the potentially hazardous material being transported within. 

Over the course of two days, their team was able to remove and replace all the existing anti-slip tape in the facility on 250 steps. This not only greatly improved the safety for staff and guests of the building, but also the aesthetics.

They used our 3” NS5100 Series tape for this job, in both our black and yellow & black diagonal colors. The yellow & black diagonal color was used for the top step of every staircase to increase visibility and solid black for every other step in the building.

The customer was extremely satisfied with the results of the replacement anti-slip tape as it improved safety and "made the stairs look so much better."   

Conclusion

Anti-slip tape is a simple yet highly effective solution to improving stairwell safety. By enhancing traction, it significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls, offering a cost-effective and durable safety measure. Building owners and facility managers should consider installing anti-slip tape to protect occupants and mitigate potential liabilities. Making this small change can have a big impact on overall building safety.