EN 13893 Flexible, Laminate and Textile Flooring - Measurement of Dynamic Friction Coefficient on Dry Floor Surfaces

The European standard “EN 13893 Flexible, laminate and textile floor coverings - Measurement of the coefficient of dynamic friction on dry floor surfaces” describes a method for measuring the coefficient of dynamic friction on the surfaces of flexible, laminate and textile floor coverings, which are typically walked on with shoes. Embossed floor coverings with a displacement volume of no more than 4 cm³/dm² are covered by this standard. Measurements are performed in a laboratory only on dry floor covering surfaces fresh from the factory. The described method is not suitable for testing on wet or dirty surfaces.

Dynamic friction testing is a method of evaluating the slipperiness of floors. Many testing devices have been produced, but they yield different results because their design and construction methods differ and different test parameters are selected. Therefore, it was decided not to standardize a specific device for testing the slipperiness properties of floor coverings. The aim is to stabilize and standardize the test principle and to determine the parameters that must be followed when designing and testing a testing device.

For the purposes of this standard, the following definitions apply in addition to the terms and definitions given in EN 12466:

• Dynamic friction coefficient: This represents the ratio of the horizontal friction force and the vertical load between the slider and the horizontal floor covering during constant speed movement.
• Displacement volume: This refers to the open volume of an embossed floor covering below the wear surface. The method for determining this property is included in the standard annex (Annex A).

In principle, sliders made of a defined material and having a specific shape are loaded to apply a certain force to the floor covering. The loaded sliders are pulled parallel to the surface of the floor covering at a constant speed. The horizontal force applied to pull the sliders is recorded along a track. The dynamic friction coefficient is obtained by dividing the horizontal force by the vertical force.

In an era where workplace and public safety is paramount, slips and falls remain a leading cause of injury worldwide. According to health and safety organizations, slips account for a significant proportion of accidents in commercial, residential, and industrial settings. To mitigate these risks, standardized test protocols have been developed to assess the slip resistance of flooring materials. One of these critical standards is EN 13893, which focuses on determining the dynamic coefficient of friction for flexible, laminate, and textile flooring on dry surfaces.

The EN 13893 standard provides a uniform method for evaluating how slip-resistant certain floor coverings are when dry, particularly under conditions simulating foot traffic in shoes. This standard applies to a range of materials, including vinyl (flexible), wood-look laminates, and carpets or rugs (textiles), provided they are typically walked on indoors.

In general, this standard covers flexible flooring (e.g., linoleum, PVC), laminate panels, and textile-based coverings. The surface condition is entirely dry flooring. Wet or soiled surfaces are addressed in supplementary standards such as DIN 51097 or EN 14231. Regarding relief limitations, this standard covers embossed or textured flooring with a maximum displacement volume of 4 cm³/dm² and ensures accurate testing of evenly patterned surfaces.

The EN 13893 standard quantifies the dynamic coefficient of friction, which essentially represents the ratio of the frictional force to the normal force during sliding motion. A higher dynamic coefficient of friction indicates better sliding resistance. The test simulates real-world walking by dragging a weighted sled across a ground surface using a portable tribometer, measuring friction under dynamic conditions.

The steps in the testing process are as follows:

• Sample preparation: A representative sample of the floor covering (at least 0,7 m x 0,7 m) is conditioned for 24 hours at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity. The surface must be clean and dry.
• Equipment setup: Typically weighing 4,6 kg, a sled with a contact area resembling a shoe sole is connected to a motorized traction device. Leather or rubber sleds can be used depending on the floor type.
• Measurement: The sled is pulled in five perpendicular passes at a speed of 0,3-0,5 m/s. The friction force is electronically recorded.
• Calculations: The dynamic coefficient is the average of at least 10 valid measurements. The results are classified as follows:
• Dynamic shear resistance: At least 0,30 - Meets minimum safety thresholds for most indoor applications.
• Dynamic minimum: Maximum 0,30 - Does not meet the requirements; processing such as texturing or rendering may be necessary.

The test is repeatable and reproducible, and precise guidelines ensure consistent results across laboratories. Unlike static friction tests, this dynamic approach better reflects the energy generated during walking.

The dual classification of the EN 13893 standard facilitates compliance for manufacturers and specifiers. Products with a dynamic slip resistance rating may bear the “DS” mark, indicating verified slip resistance. This is particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas such as hospitals, schools, retail spaces, and offices where slips may occur on dry surfaces due to dust or rapid movement.

For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its customers, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services to businesses in accordance with the "EN 13893 Flexible, laminate and textile floor coverings - Measurement of the dynamic friction coefficient on dry floor surfaces" standard.