Written answer by Ministry of National Development on effectiveness of non-slip flooring installed under the Enhancement for Active Seniors programme

Oct 4, 2023

Question No: 5034

Question by: Mr Yip Hon Weng

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry has conducted any assessment on the effectiveness of the non-slip flooring installed under the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme in preventing falls; (b) if so, what are the findings of the assessment; (c) what is the average lifespan of the non-slip flooring installed under the EASE programme; and (d) whether the Ministry will consider including a provision under EASE 2.0 programme for the refurbishment and servicing of non-slip flooring installed under the EASE programme.

Answer:

The British Pendulum Number (BPN) is an objective measure of the level of slip resistance that a surface provides. A higher level of slip resistance leads to a lower risk of falling. HDB has conducted tests to confirm that the slip-resistant treatment to toilet flooring under the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme is effective in providing slip resistance. After treatment, the flooring will achieve a BPN of 45 to 54, which exceeds the level of slip resistance (BPN of 35 to 44) stipulated under the Singapore Standard SS485:2001 for toilet flooring in wet conditions.

2        The average lifespan of the slip-resistant treatment is 3 to 5 years, with proper usage and regular cleaning. The accumulation of excessive dirt or soap residue may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment over time.

3        Flat owners are responsible for the maintenance of their treated toilet flooring. They may engage a contractor to carry out another round of slip-resistant treatment when the slip resistance of their toilet flooring is no longer effective.