Slip resistance has become a fundamental safety principle in more and more environments – from industrial facilities and public buildings to private homes. Slip hazards often appear unnoticed: wet stairs, smooth floor coverings, outdoor ramps, machine operating areas or any workstation where the presence of moisture, dust or oil increases the risk of accidents. Among 3M’s globally recognised, high-quality, long-lasting and reliable products, 3M slip-resistant tapes are one of the most important solutions the company offers in the service of accident prevention.
What is 3M slip-resistant tape?
3M slip-resistant tape is a specially coated, granulated surface tape with a high-adhesion, durable pressure-sensitive adhesive, designed to help prevent slipping even in wet, dusty or otherwise adverse conditions. The tapes are extremely easy to use, as they can be applied to almost any clean, dry, solid surface. The size and type of the slip-resistant granules varies by product, so both finer and more aggressive grades are available depending on the environment in which you want to use them.
The adhesive system used by 3M is exceptionally strong, making the tapes suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The products are engineered to provide long service life even under heavy traffic – whether on pedestrian walkways, in industrial environments or in areas frequently exposed to water, oil or other contaminants.
Function, role and properties of slip-resistant tape
The primary goal of slip resistance is accident prevention. Slips and falls are among the most common workplace and household accidents and can easily lead to serious injuries. 3M slip-resistant tapes are particularly effective in locations where there is a constant risk of slipping, where the surface is inherently smooth, glossy or sensitive to moisture.
Correctly applied slip-resistant tape improves traction, provides stability and reduces the likelihood that an unexpected step or sudden movement will result in a fall. At the same time, it can be matched aesthetically to different environments, as 3M manufactures slip-resistant solutions in various colours and formats – including a transparent version that blends discreetly into the surface.
The 3M Safety-Walk product family offers a number of advantages that ensure users receive a reliable, long-term solution. The tapes are abrasion-resistant, weather-resistant, flexible and easy to apply to a wide range of substrates, such as metal, concrete, tiles or finished wood. A key benefit is that they not only provide slip resistance, but also offer resistance to UV radiation and moisture, and certain types are additionally oil- and chemical-resistant.
The granulated surface of the products delivers excellent slip-resistant performance without being overly aggressive to shoe soles or the underlying substrate. This is particularly important on stairs, ramps or workstations where traffic is continuous and user comfort is also an important consideration.
Key steps for applying slip-resistant tape
For 3M slip-resistant tape to perform reliably over the long term, proper installation is essential. The process starts with a clean, grease-free and dust-free surface. The adhesive bonds best when the substrate is completely dry and stable. Once the surface has been prepared, the tape should be cut to the required length, ensuring it does not stretch but also does not lie slack.
During application, it is advisable to peel back the liner gradually while firmly pressing the tape onto the surface. This helps to avoid air bubbles and weakly bonded areas. Carefully pressing down the edges is also important, as this ensures the tape stays in place for a long time, even under heavy use.
After installation, it is recommended not to load the area for a few hours so that the adhesive can build full bond strength. 3M adhesive systems cure quickly, so the tape usually becomes fully usable in a relatively short time.
3M slip-resistant tapes in Flanker’s product range
As an experienced official 3M distributor, Flanker offers several slip-resistant solutions. Here are some key products from the range:
3M Safety-Walk Slip Resistant General Purpose Tape
This wider, large-coverage tape is ideal for stairs, ramps, larger walkways or any area where increased traction and clear visual marking are required. It is durable, weather-resistant and specifically designed for heavy-duty use.
3M Safety-Walk Slip Resistant Tape
This size is ideal for narrower steps, continuous corridors or areas where a compact, easily adaptable slip-resistant solution is needed. The black colour fits well into classic industrial and institutional environments.
3M Safety-Walk 620 Transparent Slip-Resistant Tape
This transparent version is mainly recommended for decorative indoor surfaces, ceramics, wood panelling or anywhere it is important that the slip-resistant solution remains almost invisible. It preserves the original appearance of the surface while still providing effective slip resistance.
3M slip-resistant tapes offer an ideal solution for anyone looking to reduce slip hazards in a long-lasting, reliable and aesthetically pleasing way. Thanks to the wide selection within the 3M™ Safety-Walk™ product family, there are suitable solutions for both indoor and outdoor surfaces, and installation is quick and straightforward. The products offered by Flanker guarantee the professional quality required in industrial and institutional environments. Whether it is stairs, ramps, work areas or even home use, 3M slip-resistant tapes help to reduce the risk of accidents effectively and safely.
