Anti-Slip Treatment for Outdoor Steps and Ramps: A Complete Guide for Facilities Managers
The most effective way to reduce slip risk on outdoor steps and ramps at a commercial property is to apply a professionally tested anti-slip coating to every surface that cannot be kept consistently dry. For facilities managers responsible for offices, schools, housing associations, retail sites, healthcare buildings, local authority properties, or mixed-use estates, outdoor steps and ramps are among the most consistently high-risk surfaces on site. They are exposed to weather year-round, used by a wide range of people including those with reduced mobility, and are a primary location for both staff and public liability claims.
This guide covers the specific risk factors affecting outdoor steps and ramps in the UK, your legal obligations as a duty holder, how to carry out a structured risk assessment for these surfaces, and how to select the right anti-slip product for each surface type and environment.
Why Outdoor Steps and Ramps Are a Priority Risk for Facilities Managers
Slips, trips and falls remain the single most common cause of non-fatal injuries in UK workplaces, accounting for 32% of all reported non-fatal workplace accidents according to the HSE. Outdoor steps and ramps consistently feature among the most incident-prone surfaces on commercial and public-facing properties for several interconnected reasons.
Weather exposure is the primary driver. Unlike indoor floors, outdoor steps and ramps cannot be mopped dry or managed reactively with wet floor signs. Rain, morning dew, and standing water keep these surfaces in a persistently wet condition for significant portions of the year. Even during summer, outdoor surfaces can be wet from overnight rain or irrigation in the early hours of high-footfall periods.
Algae and biological growth establishes quickly on outdoor steps and ramps that are not treated with a protective anti-slip coating or sealer. Algae growth is particularly aggressive on north-facing surfaces, shaded areas, and surfaces that retain moisture. A surface that appears visually clean can carry a significant biological slip hazard that standard cleaning will not remove.
Surface wear is a long-term issue that facilities managers must monitor. Concrete, stone, and tiled steps and ramps lose their original surface texture over time through foot traffic and weathering. A surface that was adequately slip-resistant when installed may have degraded well below safe thresholds without any visible indication.
Diverse user profiles increase the consequence of a slip incident on steps and ramps specifically. Wheelchair users, people using mobility aids, elderly visitors, delivery personnel carrying loads, and parents with prams all use access ramps and external steps as part of their normal movement through a building or site. A slip on a ramp for a wheelchair user or an elderly visitor can result in a serious injury with significant personal, legal, and reputational consequences for the managing organisation.
What the Law Requires of Facilities Managers
Facilities managers in the UK operate under a clear framework of legislation governing the safety of outdoor steps, ramps, and access routes.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a duty on employers and those in control of premises to ensure the safety of all persons using their facilities, including visitors and members of the public.
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 specifically require that floors and traffic routes, including stairs and ramps, are suitable, in good condition, and free from risks to safety. Regulation 17 covers permanent stairs, ladders, and ramps on pedestrian routes within workplace premises including those used for maintenance access.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require facilities managers to carry out regular risk assessments and implement control measures to reduce identified risks to the lowest reasonably practicable level.
The Occupiers Liability Act 1957 extends these obligations to all visitors, requiring that reasonable care is taken to ensure the property is reasonably safe for the purpose for which visitors are invited.
The Equality Act 2010 and Building Regulations Approved Document M require that access ramps and routes are maintained in a condition that does not disadvantage people with disabilities or reduced mobility. A ramp that is slippery and therefore unusable by wheelchair users or people with walking aids may represent a failure to provide reasonable access.
In practice, this means that if an outdoor step or ramp on your property is identified as a slip hazard and a person is injured before corrective action is taken, the duty holder is exposed to significant legal risk. The standard of defence expected by courts and HSE inspectors is documented evidence that the risk was identified, assessed, and addressed within a reasonable timeframe.
Identifying High-Risk Steps and Ramps on Your Property
A structured walk-around risk assessment is the starting point for any facilities manager addressing outdoor slip risk. The following zone types should be evaluated in every assessment.
Building entrance steps and external ramps are the highest-footfall outdoor surfaces on most properties. They are used by every person entering the building, are exposed to the full range of weather conditions, and are the most common location for public liability claims involving steps and ramps.
Loading bay and service yard ramps carry high-consequence risk because they are often used by workers carrying loads, operating equipment, or moving quickly under time pressure. Metal and concrete loading ramps are among the most slip-prone surfaces in any commercial environment when wet.
Car park steps and pedestrian access ramps bridge the gap between the car park level and building entrances. They are often located in open or partially exposed areas and receive little maintenance attention compared to primary entrance steps.
Fire escape steps and emergency exit ramps must be maintained to the same standard as primary access routes. In an emergency, these surfaces are used at speed and under stress, often by people unfamiliar with the route.
Accessibility ramps for wheelchair and mobility aid users require specific attention because the consequence of a slip on a ramp is more severe than on a level surface. The Approved Document M guidance states that ramp surfaces must be slip-resistant and of a colour that contrasts visually with surrounding landings.
Steps and ramps within landscaped or planted areas are frequently overlooked in risk assessments. These surfaces are shaded by planting, receive organic debris and moisture from irrigation, and often develop algae and moss significantly faster than open-access surfaces.
How to Assess Slip Resistance: the Pendulum Test
The Pendulum Test is the HSE-recognised method for measuring the slip resistance of a floor or external surface. It produces a Pendulum Test Value (PTV), also known as a Slip Resistance Value (SRV). The accepted thresholds are as follows.
A PTV below 25 indicates a high slip risk and urgent remediation is required. A PTV between 25 and 35 indicates a moderate risk that should be addressed. A PTV of 36 or above indicates a low slip risk. For outdoor surfaces exposed to moisture and contamination, a higher PTV is recommended to account for variable conditions throughout the year.
Many facilities managers are unaware of the PTV of their outdoor surfaces, particularly older steps and ramps. If you do not have documented test results for high-risk surfaces, carrying out pendulum testing before and after treatment is both a sound compliance measure and a useful record in the event of a claim.
SlipDoctors anti-slip treatments are tested to raise treated surfaces to a PTV of 36 or above on most surface types. The SlipDoctors UK team can advise on testing requirements for specific sites and environments.
The Best Anti-Slip Products for Outdoor Steps and Ramps
Selecting the correct product depends on the surface material, the level of foot traffic, the outdoor exposure conditions, and whether a clear or coloured finish is required. SlipDoctors UK offers a range of professionally tested commercial-grade solutions covering every outdoor step and ramp scenario.
Ultra Grip: for ramps requiring maximum industrial-grade traction
Ultra Grip is the most aggressive anti-slip coating in the SlipDoctors range and is the recommended product for loading bay ramps, vehicle ramps, wheelchair access ramps, and any outdoor ramp surface where the highest possible traction is required. It is a two-part epoxy anti-skid paint that adheres to concrete, wood, aluminium, fibreglass, and steel, making it suitable for virtually every ramp surface type encountered in commercial and industrial environments. Ultra Grip is UV-resistant, chemical-resistant, and built to withstand heavy foot traffic, wheelchair use, trolleys, and vehicle movement. It is formulated specifically for the UK climate and cures effectively in temperatures as low as 4 degrees Celsius. Each tin comes with a professional phenolic roller. Suitable surfaces: concrete ramps, metal ramps, wooden ramps, fibreglass ramps, aluminium ramps. Ideal for: loading ramps, wheelchair access ramps, vehicle ramps, warehouse ramps, outdoor sloped walkways.
Tuff Grip: for outdoor steps and high-footfall ramps requiring a clear finish
Tuff Grip is a clear, extremely high-texture anti-skid coating that delivers aggressive traction on outdoor steps and ramps where visual appearance of the surface needs to be maintained. It is UV-resistant, chemical-resistant, non-toxic, and suitable for concrete, wood, metal, and composite surfaces. Tuff Grip is applied in one to two coats with a textured roller and covers approximately 15 square metres per 3.8 litres. It is the preferred choice for building entrance steps, external staircases, and publicly visible access ramps where the surface material or finish needs to remain visible. Suitable surfaces: concrete, wood, metal, composite decking. Ideal for: building entrance steps, external staircases, fire escape steps, publicly visible access ramps.
Dura Grip E2: for steps and ramps requiring a coloured renovation finish
Dura Grip E2 is a two-part epoxy anti-slip floor paint available in multiple colours. It is the preferred choice where outdoor steps or ramps are worn, stained, or require complete surface renovation alongside slip resistance improvement. It is fully chemical-resistant, stain-resistant, and durable enough for heavy commercial use indoors and outdoors. Dura Grip E2 is also useful where colour-coded surfaces are required for safety zoning, contrasting step nosings, or visual demarcation of ramp edges under accessibility requirements. Suitable surfaces: concrete, tiles, metal, wood, vinyl, fibreglass. Ideal for: worn or stained steps, ramps requiring colour coding, accessibility ramp surfaces requiring visual contrast.
Stone Grip: for tiled and stone outdoor steps Stone Grip is a fast-acting anti-slip treatment for ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone surfaces. It works by micro-etching the surface to create increased traction without changing the appearance of the tile or stone. It is industrial-strength, certified for high-traffic commercial environments, and raises slip resistance to a PTV of 36 or above on most treated surfaces. Stone Grip is the preferred treatment for tiled external staircases, stone entrance steps, and any outdoor step finished with ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone. Suitable surfaces: ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, natural stone, concrete, unsealed stone. Ideal for: tiled entrance steps, stone staircases, external tiled ramp surfaces.
Surface Preparation: the Most Important Step in Any Treatment Programme
Regardless of which product is selected, surface preparation is the single most important factor in treatment performance and longevity. Inadequately prepared surfaces will result in reduced adhesion, shorter treatment life, and in some cases product failure.
All surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned before treatment. Remove algae, moss, grease, dirt, existing sealants, and standing water. A pressure wash is recommended for concrete and stone outdoor surfaces followed by a pH-neutral cleaner and full drying time. Existing coatings or sealants must be tested for compatibility with the chosen treatment or removed before application.
New concrete must be allowed to cure for a minimum of 30 days before treatment. Metal surfaces should be degreased and any rust treated or removed before application. All SlipDoctors products come with full technical data sheets and surface preparation guidance. The SlipDoctors UK team is available to advise on preparation requirements for specific surface types.
Building a Compliant Slip Prevention Programme for Outdoor Surfaces
For facilities managers overseeing multiple sites or a large property estate, the most effective approach is to build outdoor step and ramp treatment into a rolling compliance programme rather than responding to incidents after they occur.
The following framework provides a practical starting point.
Audit phase: carry out a documented risk assessment of all outdoor steps and ramps across the property or estate. Photograph each surface, note the material type, footfall level, and any visible condition issues. Record existing PTV data where available.
Prioritise by risk: rank surfaces by consequence severity and footfall volume. Loading bay ramps, wheelchair access ramps, and building entrance steps should be treated first. Fire escapes and secondary access routes should follow in the same programme cycle.
Treatment and documentation: apply the appropriate product to each surface following manufacturer guidelines. Retain product data sheets, batch numbers, application dates, and coverage records as part of your compliance documentation. This record is your primary defence in the event of a future claim or HSE inspection.
Maintenance schedule: maintain treated surfaces with regular pH-neutral cleaning and periodic visual inspection. Avoid oil-based or wax-based cleaning products on treated surfaces. Most SlipDoctors treatments carry a 2-year manufacturer warranty. Plan reapplication as part of your annual maintenance budget.
Review cycle: carry out a documented annual review of all treated surfaces, particularly those with heavy footfall or exposed to harsh weather. Update your risk assessment records accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions: Anti-Slip Treatment for Outdoor Steps and Ramps
What is the best anti-slip coating for outdoor concrete steps at a commercial property? For outdoor concrete steps at a commercial property, Tuff Grip is recommended for surfaces requiring a clear finish, and Dura Grip E2 is recommended where a coloured finish or surface renovation is needed. Both products are UV-resistant, weatherproof, and tested for heavy commercial use. For tiled concrete steps, Stone Grip is the appropriate treatment.
Do facilities managers have a legal duty to treat slippery outdoor ramps? Yes. Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the Occupiers Liability Act 1957, facilities managers have a duty to ensure that outdoor ramps and steps are safe for all users. Where a surface is identified as a slip hazard, failure to take corrective action exposes the duty holder to significant legal liability in the event of an injury.
What anti-slip product is best for wheelchair access ramps at a commercial building? Ultra Grip is the recommended product for wheelchair access ramps due to its industrial-grade traction, compatibility with concrete, metal, wood, fibreglass, and aluminium surfaces, and its durability under wheelchair and mobility aid use. Dura Grip E2 is a suitable alternative where a coloured finish is required for visual contrast compliance under Approved Document M.
How long does anti-slip treatment last on outdoor steps and ramps? All SlipDoctors anti-slip treatments carry a 2-year manufacturer warranty and are designed to maintain effective slip resistance for up to two years with proper maintenance and pH-neutral cleaning. Longevity depends on footfall levels, surface preparation quality, and weather exposure. Heavy-traffic surfaces such as loading bay ramps may require more frequent reapplication.
What Pendulum Test Value should outdoor steps and ramps achieve? A PTV of 36 or above is the accepted minimum for a low slip risk in wet conditions. For outdoor surfaces exposed to variable weather, contamination, and diverse user profiles, a higher PTV is recommended. SlipDoctors anti-slip treatments are tested to raise treated surfaces to a PTV of 36 or above on most surface types.
Can anti-slip treatment be applied to metal loading bay ramps? Yes. Ultra Grip adheres directly to steel, aluminium, and other metal ramp surfaces and is specifically designed for loading bay and industrial ramp environments. Tuff Grip is an alternative for metal surfaces where a less aggressive texture is required. Surface degreasing and any rust treatment must be completed before application.
How quickly can treated steps and ramps be returned to use? Dura Grip E2 and Tuff Grip require 6 to 12 hours before foot traffic after the final coat. Ultra Grip dries to a hard durable surface within 4 to 6 hours when applied with the Crosslinker included in the Extreme Kit. Stone Grip treated surfaces are typically ready for use within a standard drying and neutralising period of a few hours. All products can generally be applied during overnight or weekend closure windows for most commercial properties.
Protect Your Property, Your People, and Your Organisation
Outdoor steps and ramps are one of the most preventable sources of slip injury on any commercial or public-facing property. For facilities managers, treating these surfaces with the right professional anti-slip coating is the most direct, cost-effective action available to reduce risk, demonstrate compliance, and protect the people who use your buildings every day.
SlipDoctors UK supplies professional anti-slip treatments trusted by facilities managers, property management companies, housing associations, local authorities, and commercial estates across the UK. All products carry a 2-year manufacturer warranty and are available with free standard delivery to most of mainland UK, arriving within 1 to 2 working days.
Not sure which product is right for your surfaces? Contact the SlipDoctors UK team for a tailored recommendation based on your surface types, footfall levels, and compliance requirements. Or browse the full range of anti-slip treatments for outdoor steps and ramps now.
