Bridges have been one of the inventions that allow us to cross over to different lands without getting into water or dangerous situations, and it is still used until this day, assisting people in their travel journeys. However, after a certain period of time, slippery surfaces on bridges became a problem in terms of safety.
Slippery bridges are usually caused by corrosion as bridges are constantly exposed to water. Corrosion on bridges will lead to instability of structure and make the surface much more slippery than before.
To solve this problem, the invention of anti-slip products has occurred and has since been playing an important role in keeping safety in check. Companies such as Thortech Bridges and Marine supply different types of options in terms of keeping your bridges skid-free, which we will get into.
What Are Anti-Slip Surfaces?
Anti-slip surfaces are surfaces that have been through a certain degree of modification to ensure that it creates extra friction between the surface and the user, preventing accidents such as slipping or skidding.
Anti-slip surfaces are mostly used to combat harsh weather and humid or moist conditions, with a simple, yet important task – protecting the safety of the bridge users. Just think of it – Slippery surfaces on boat ramps, pedestrian bridges, or construction bridges might potentially result in heavy accidents if someone actually slipped and fell.
In essence, anti-slip surfaces should not just be limited to industrial use, but also in our everyday lives and homes, especially in the presence of elderly members.
Types Of Anti Slip Surface Options
As technology advances, different types of products that satisfies anti-slip needs has surfaced in the market, meeting different type of needs with multiple variations. Currently, the options of anti-slip products are:
- Anti Slip Sheets
- Anti Slip Paints
- Anti Slip Strips
- Anti Slip Stairs
- Anti Slip Decking Strips
- Anti Slip Paving
Most of the products are add-ons to the initial bridges, but there are manufacturers that create bridges with built-in anti-slip properties. As for now, anti-slip paints and anti-slip sheets are the most common products used in the market.
Benefits Of Using Anti-Slip Surfaces on Bridges
There are a few benefits of applying anti-slip surfaces on bridges:
Safety
The main purpose and the most crucial benefit of an anti-slip surface is in its name – preventing slips! Harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow can make bridges less safe to cross for pedestrians or cyclists. With anti-slip products applied to the bridges, they are now able to safely cross the bridge with peace of mind.
Lower Maintenance
Aside from keeping you safe, some anti-slip products such as anti-slip paint keep the bridges safe and sturdy as well! Anti-slip paints are usually able to create an environment that is skid-free and corrosion-free, or even keep bridges from too much heat or impacts to some extent. This will ultimately extend the lifespan of the bridge and keep the cost low maintenance.
Identifying Good Anti-Slip Products
There are certain characteristics to look for when choosing the best anti-slip product, which include:
- Abide by Military Specification Testing Requirements
- Good coefficient friction of 1:1
Aside from getting good anti-slip products, you should also consider enhancing the friction with other methods and products, such as
- Blending grit into the anti-slip paints creates no smooth surfaces.
- Apply acid on new concretes to create more friction
In Conclusion
In conclusion, anti-slip surfaces are important in all contexts, especially bridges. Creating anti-slip bridges means a lower rate of accidents, which results in heightened safety. For anti-slip surface options, contact suppliers such as Thortech to get the best suggestion on a case-by-case basis.
