SAFETY ASSURED WITH NEW XTRA-GRIP INSERT FROM GRADUS

Contract interior finishes specialist, Gradus, has launched Xtra-grip, a new stair edging insert designed to help reduce the number of slips and falls on stairs.

With over 100,000 injuries reported on non-domestic stairs each year (according to figures produced by the HSE), owners and occupiers of public buildings are constantly looking at ways to improve the safety of their buildings.

Xtra-grip insert incorporates mineral aggregates to increase surface roughness, which in turn provides improved slip-resistance in both dry and wet interior conditions.

The fact that interior stairs can become wet, either through contamination from walked in moisture or from spillage of drinks, is often overlooked and wet interior stairs can create a serious safety hazard.

Xtra-grip has been independently tested for slip-resistance by the Health & Safety Laboratory and has been proven to offer a ‘low risk of slip’ in both wet and dry interior conditions, giving test values that far exceed the minimum requirements. In addition, independent wear tests by SATRA have given Xtra-grip a classification of Group T, Classes 34 and 43, meaning that it is suitable for ‘very heavy’ use in commercial environments, and ‘heavy’ use in light industrial environments.

Xtra-grip is currently offered in the Gradus XT range of aluminium stair edgings, and will be available in the entire Gradus range of traditional stair edgings from Spring of this year, providing specifiers with a comprehensive colour and design choice to suit all interior design requirements.

Commenting on the launch of Xtra-grip, Accessories Marketing Manager Lynette Bowden said:

“Accidents at work or in retail or public spaces are a serious issue for any organisation wanting to protect its reputation and care for staff and customers, especially with the rising levels of claim, litigation and compensation.

At Gradus we are constantly developing our materials and technology to improve the performance of our stair edgings. Xtra-grip is an evolution of our current insert material, offering a safer option for interior stairs that are at risk of becoming wet, for example stairs near exterior entrances or near canteen or vending areas.

By using Xtra-grip in areas such as these, building owners and occupiers can be certain of real peace of mind on this aspect of stair safety.”

For further information on Xtra-grip and the XT range of stair edgings visit www.gradusxt.com, or call Gradus Customer Support on 01625 428922 for information on the entire Gradus range of contract interior finishing products.