How to make pool steps slip-proof?

Anti-slip solutions for pools put to the test.

Private swimming pools and family pools are becoming increasingly popular in times of lockdowns and contact restrictions. Already during the planning stage, families with small children in particular pay attention to slip-resistant floor coverings so that bathing fun is not spoiled by slip-and-fall accidents.
Coarse-textured tiles, which promise more static friction, are preferred for pool steps and environments. However, users complain that when the non-slip flooring gets wet, even textured surfaces suddenly become as slippery as a sheet of ice. The increased risk of slipping on contact with water is due to the static friction coefficient, which is greatly reduced when wet.

There are reports on the net of pool owners who have torn out new floor coverings in order to eliminate the source of danger for their own family and visitors. Other pool owners try to limit the slipperiness by using aids. Usually, anti-slip stickers with decorations or self-adhesive safety tape are recommended and anti-slip mats are also often suggested as an anti-slip solution.

Pool owners are usually reluctant to use the solutions offered: anti-slip mats underwater could gradually release plasticisers and toxins, and those who have chosen a beautiful floor covering would rather do without anti-slip decorative stickers. Moreover, anti-slip stickers and self-adhesive safety tape only last for a limited time. In addition, in the case of pool stairs, the anti-slip stickers are underwater if the detachment of the adhesive cannot be diagnosed in time to replace them immediately with new stickers.

The owners of an indoor pool in their own home decided against all three common anti-slip solutions. Instead, an anti-slip coating was prophylactically applied to the pool steps. Due to the transparent property of the coating, the chosen appearance of the surface is maintained. The detachment of an adhesive by intervening wetness and dirt is not possible: the coating is directly bonded to the floor covering. The slip resistance class is the highest for barefoot areas: slip resistance factor C.
And the icing on the cake? The anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties of the anti-slip coating keep the steps hygienic and protect pool users from germs. A win-win for all pool enthusiasts.

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