The ADA requires that floors in public buildings have a Static Coefficient of Friction (SCOF) at or above a .6 level for level surfaces and .8 for ramps. Most public buildings do not meet this level on their entrances, lobbies, restrooms, and kitchens.
Failing to comply can result in:
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Penalties of up to $50,000 for a first violation and up to $100,000 for each subsequent violation.
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Legal costs and damages awarded to individuals in lawsuits.
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Increases in Worker’s Compensation payments when accidents occur.
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Increases in General Liability Insurance premiums when accidents occur.
IRS Incentives to Comply with ADA Requirements
The IRS has provided that small businesses can deduct up to $15,000 for removal of certain architectural barriers to the handicapped, which includes modification of the floor surfaces to make them comply with the non-slip guidelines. In addition, certain small businesses can receive a Federal Tax credit up to $5,000 from the IRS for money spent to comply with the ADA regulations.
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Static Coefficient of Friction Standards (SCOF)
These standards have
been adopted by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) and The American Society of
Testing and Materials (ASTM):
The Ceramic Tile Institute identifies these three standards:
A SCOF of .50 or above is considered a safe walkway surface with
a dry condition. A reading of below .50 is considered an unsafe walkway
surface.
(Source: The Slip and Fall Handbook, by S.I. Rosen, Hanrow
Press)
Please note that the SCOF is dramatically reduced when an untreated surface is wet.
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Wet
or dry, The SCOF of a Safety Grip USA |