14 October 2026
Tile Slip Ratings Explained: What P3, P4 and P5 Mean
Short answer: in Australia, slip resistance is tested under Standard AS 4586. The most common result you'll see is a P rating from P0 to P5 — the higher the number, the more slip resistant the surface is when wet.
P ratings (wet pendulum test)
A pendulum with a rubber slider swings across a wet tile to simulate a foot slipping. The result is grouped into classes:
- P0–P1: lowest wet slip resistance — generally suited to dry indoor areas and walls.
- P2: commonly used for dry indoor floors.
- P3: commonly used for residential bathroom, ensuite and laundry floors.
- P4: commonly used for outdoor areas, alfresco areas and ramps.
- P5: highest — commonly used around pools and on steep or very wet surfaces.
R ratings (ramp test)
Some tiles also list an R rating (R9–R13). This comes from a test where a person in shoes walks on an oily tile on a ramp that is slowly tilted. Higher numbers mean more slip resistance. R ratings are common on commercial and outdoor tiles.
Which rating do I need?
The ratings above are general guidance only. The right rating depends on where the tile is going, how wet it gets, and the rules that apply to your project — the National Construction Code and Standards Australia guidance set requirements for some areas. Always confirm with your builder, designer or certifier before you buy.
Finish matters
Polished and gloss tiles are usually less slip resistant than matt, and grip or textured finishes are usually the most slip resistant. Many of our ranges come in a matt version for inside and a grip version for outside, so you can keep the same look.
Every tile on our site lists its slip rating in the specifications.