Polished concrete is widely used in industrial facilities, warehouses, and commercial spaces due to its durability, ease of maintenance, and modern aesthetic. However, a common concern among facility managers and property owners is whether polished concrete is slippery and how it affects workplace safety.
CustomCrete has years of experience providing high-quality polished concrete solutions for industrial and commercial spaces. They understand the concerns about slip resistance and work with clients to select the right finishes, sealers, and treatments to enhance traction and minimize safety risks.
This article explores the factors that influence the slip resistance of polished concrete, whether it poses a safety risk, and how facility managers can minimize accidents with the right precautions.
Is Polished Concrete Slippery?
Polished concrete, by design, has a smooth and glossy finish, which can give the impression that it is more slippery than other flooring options. However, whether it poses a slipping hazard depends on several factors, including surface treatments, environmental conditions, and proper maintenance practices.
Factors That Affect Slip Resistance
- Surface Finish & Sealers – The level of polishing and whether a sealer is applied can impact traction. Highly polished surfaces with certain sealers may become slick, especially in high-moisture environments.
- Ice & Snow Build Up– Ice and snow on polished concrete can make the surface more slippery but water does not.
- Dust & Debris – Accumulated dust or dirt can reduce traction and increase the likelihood of slips.
Solutions to Improve Traction on Polished Concrete
While polished concrete is known for its sleek and durable finish, there are several effective solutions to enhance traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls:
1. Use Anti-Slip Treatments
Traction-enhancing sealers can significantly improve the grip of polished concrete surfaces without diminishing their aesthetic appeal. These treatments create micro-textures that help prevent slips.
2. Maintain a Clean and Dry Surface
Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of dust, grease, and spills that can reduce traction. Implementing a strict cleaning routine using appropriate floor cleaners is essential in industrial environments.
3. Use Floor Mats and Walk-Off Zones
Strategically placing mats or textured flooring near entrances, workstations, or high-traffic zones can help absorb moisture and provide additional slip resistance where needed.
4. Ensure Proper Footwear Policies
Encouraging or requiring non-slip footwear for employees working on polished concrete surfaces can drastically reduce the risk of slips and falls.
When Is Polished Concrete a Safe Choice?
Polished concrete is considered safe when installed and maintained correctly. It is commonly used in high-traffic areas such as retail spaces, airports, warehouses, and offices where durability and aesthetics are important. The key to making polished concrete a safe flooring choice is selecting the right finishing method and implementing proper maintenance measures.
Best Settings for Polished Concrete
- Warehouses & Factories – Durable and resistant to high traffic wear with proper cleaning.
- Retail & Commercial Spaces – Sleek and stylish while maintaining safety through strategic mat placement.
- Showrooms & Offices – Aesthetic appeal with added safety measures to prevent slipping.
Conclusion: A Safe and Practical Flooring Solution
Polished concrete does not have to be a safety hazard when the right precautions are taken. While its smooth surface can become slippery under certain conditions, implementing anti-slip treatments, maintaining cleanliness, and choosing the right finish can help prevent accidents. For facility managers considering polished concrete, working with an experienced flooring professional can help ensure a safe and durable solution tailored to their needs.
If you’re looking to install or enhance polished concrete flooring, CustomCrete can help you choose the right finishes and safety treatments for your space. For more information on the price breakdown of polished concrete, read our blog “How Much Does Polished Concrete Really Cost?”.
