Slip resistance SRC, SRA, SRB explained - EN 13287 guide

Slips are among the most common workplace accidents. That’s why you should know what SRA, SRB and SRC mean and how to choose the right slip resistance. Here you’ll quickly learn how EN ISO 13287 tests are done, which rating fits which use case, and what to look for when buying safety shoes at shraks.de.

How SRA, SRB and SRC are tested - EN ISO 13287 made simple

The slip resistance of outsoles is determined in the lab per EN ISO 13287. It measures the coefficient of friction in two situations: heel strike and flat contact. Tests are conducted on defined floors with specified contaminants. The result determines the SRA, SRB or SRC rating.

Note: These tests are standardized so results are comparable, but they don’t cover every real surface. In practice, tread pattern, compounds, contamination and maintenance also matter – as do special features like slip‑resistant outsoles. Use the classification as a reliable minimum and match it to your actual work environment.

Classification	Test floor	Contaminant	Min. μ heel/flat
SRA	Ceramic tile	Soapy solution	0.28 / 0.32
SRB	Steel floor	Glycerine	0.13 / 0.18
SRC	Ceramic and steel	Soapy solution and glycerine	Meets SRA and SRB

SRC, SRA or SRB - what fits your job

Select slip resistance based on typical floors and media on site. These rules of thumb help you choose fast.

• Dry warehouse and workshop areas (e.g. Logistics & transport) – SRA is often sufficient if work is mostly dry and cleaning is regular.
• Kitchens, food, wet zones – SRA or SRC. On wet tiles, cleaners and food residues, SRC offers the safest all‑round protection. Suitable e.g. for hospitality.
• Metalworking, oils and lubricants – SRB or preferably SRC, as steel floors with glycerine‑like media are slippery.
• Construction, outdoors, mixed surfaces – SRC is the robust choice when conditions are unclear, since it meets both test requirements.
• Maintenance, mixed areas – If you move between dry, wet and oily surfaces, choose SRC as the safe standard recommendation.

Tip: Beyond the rating, look at tread pattern, water drainage and regular cleaning of grooves. Worn or soiled soles measurably lose slip resistance. For clinics and care facilities, see safety shoes for healthcare with high slip resistance. Still unsure? Which safety shoes for which workplace?

Tips for buying at shraks.de

SRC, SRA and SRB describe slip resistance and are independent of protection classes like SB or S1P. At shraks.de you’ll mainly find SB and S1P models with a stylish sneaker look. Check the product page for the declared slip rating. If it’s missing, ask support whether SRA, SRB or SRC proof is available. For warehouse, workshop and construction, S1P models are popular – combine them with the right slip rating for your job.

FAQ

What does SRC slip resistance mean

SRC means a shoe passes both slip tests – SRA on ceramic with soapy solution and SRB on steel with glycerine. It provides the most comprehensive, standardized slip resistance.

Is SRC better than SRA

Generally yes. SRC covers SRA plus SRB and therefore offers more safety in mixed or unknown conditions than SRA alone.

What does SRA mean

SRA stands for tested slip resistance on ceramic tiles with a soapy solution. It’s the right choice for dry to wet areas without oils or fats.

Which is better, SR or SRC

SR is a newer designation in the standard and is based on a ceramic test. In practice many manufacturers still use SRC. If you want maximum coverage, choose SRC where available.