GRIP Ratings
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has developed the GRIP
rating scheme for the slip resistance of footwear. The purpose of
the GRIP scheme is to allow footwear users to identify suitable
slip resistant footwear as a control measure to reduce their risk
of slipping accidents.
The European PPE Directive recognises the need for slip
resistance as a protective property of footwear. Demonstration of
compliance with this requirement is often claimed through the use
of mechanical tests. One such mechanical test (BS EN ISO 13287:
2012) forms the basis of the commonly used standards BS EN ISO
20345:2011, BS EN ISO 20346:2004 + A1: 2007 and BS EN ISO
20347:2012. These standards provide a minimum level of compliance,
the GRIP goes beyond this to provide valid data for use in
selecting slip resistant footwear as a control measure to prevent
slips.
Footwear selection should be informed by a risk assessment. For
low hazard environments One Star or Two Star footwear is a sensible
way to protect your staff from slips. Where slips are known to
occur, Three Star or Four Star footwear will reduce the occurrence
of slipping. In the most challenging workplaces, Five Star footwear
may be necessary to adequately control slip risk.
The effectiveness of rated footwear should be monitored as part
of the risk assessment review process. If, for example, slips occur
in Two Star footwear, you should consider upgrading to footwear
with a higher rating.
The GRIP scheme only deals with the slip resistance of footwear.
Whilst slips are a major issue, other safety requirements arising
from risk assessments, such as toe protection, should be considered
in parallel with the GRIP ratings when selecting footwear for use
as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The ratings displayed below relate to the soling unit,
which means each unit is available with a wide range of uppers.
Follow the links below to browse the manufacturers
full range of products.
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