When choosing anti-slip tape for a workplace, public building, warehouse, ramp, staircase or industrial access area, slip resistance is one of the most important factors to consider. Anti-slip products are often described using performance ratings, and one of the most recognised classifications is the R rating.

For customers comparing anti-slip tape options, an R rating helps indicate how much slip resistance a surface provides under controlled testing conditions. At Heskins, several Safety-Grip anti-slip tape products have achieved an R13 rating, making them suitable for demanding environments where reliable grip is essential.

What Is an R Rating?

An R rating is a slip resistance classification used to describe how well a surface performs under ramp testing. The rating scale typically runs from R9 to R13, with R9 representing the lowest level within the classification and R13 representing the highest.

In simple terms, the higher the R rating, the greater the tested slip resistance. R13 is commonly associated with high-grip surfaces designed for challenging conditions, including areas where wet, dirty, oily or heavily trafficked surfaces may increase slip risk.

R ratings are useful because they provide specifiers, facilities managers, safety officers and procurement teams with a clear way to compare the slip-resistant properties of different surface materials. However, they should be considered alongside the application, environment, footwear, contaminants, cleaning routines and any other relevant testing data, such as pendulum test results where available.

Why R Ratings Matter for Anti-Slip Tape

Slips, trips and falls remain a major safety concern in commercial and industrial settings. Stairs, ramps, loading bays, walkways, machinery access platforms and external routes can all become hazardous when exposed to moisture, dust, grease, mud or heavy use.

Anti-slip tape provides a fast, practical and cost-effective way to improve traction on existing surfaces. Rather than replacing flooring, Heskins anti-slip tapes can be applied directly to suitable substrates, helping to improve grip and highlight safer walking routes.

An R13 anti-slip tape is particularly valuable in locations where a high level of slip resistance is required. It can help support safer movement in high-risk areas while also contributing to a more visible and structured safety system.

Heskins R13 Anti-Slip Tape Options

Heskins manufactures a range of anti-slip tapes designed for different environments, several of which are listed with an R13 rating.

H3401 Standard Safety-Grip is a versatile option for general anti-slip applications, including steps, walkways, ramps, ladders, platforms and entrances. It uses a durable abrasive surface and is suitable for both internal and external environments.

For more demanding industrial areas, H3402 Coarse Safety-Grip provides a more aggressive surface texture. This makes it suitable for locations where water, dirt or heavy use may increase the risk of slips.

Heskins Conformable Anti-Slip Tape is designed for uneven or textured surfaces such as chequer plate and metal ramps, helping the tape sit correctly on irregular profiles. H3403 Glow in the Dark Anti-Slip Tape combines slip resistance with photoluminescent visibility, making it useful for steps, emergency routes and low-light areas.

Together, these products give specifiers and site managers practical options for improving grip across different surfaces and environments.

Choosing the Right Anti-Slip Tape

The best anti-slip tape depends on the surface, environment and level of risk. For general use, Standard Safety-Grip is a strong all-round option. For harsher industrial applications, Coarse Safety-Grip may be more suitable. For textured metal surfaces, Conformable Anti-Slip Tape is usually the better choice. For low-light areas, Glow in the Dark Anti-Slip Tape provides the added benefit of visual guidance.

When selecting an anti-slip tape, consider:

  • Whether the area is indoors or outdoors
  • Whether the surface is smooth, rough, textured or uneven
  • Whether water, oil, dust or dirt may be present
  • The volume of foot traffic or equipment movement
  • Whether visibility, colour coding or printed warnings are required
  • Whether technical data or test certification is needed for compliance records

Improve Surface Safety with Heskins R13 Anti-Slip Tape

R ratings are a useful way to understand the tested slip resistance of flooring and surface safety products. An R13 rating indicates a high level of slip resistance, making it especially relevant for demanding commercial and industrial environments.

Heskins offers a wide range of R13 anti-slip tape products, including Standard Safety-Grip, Coarse Safety-Grip, Conformable Anti-Slip Tape and Glow in the Dark Anti-Slip Tape. Each product is designed for a specific type of application, helping businesses improve grip, reduce slip risks and create safer working environments.

For guidance on choosing the correct anti-slip tape for your site, contact Heskins to discuss your application, surface type and performance requirements.