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AIMS Industrial Supplies
LEARNING HUB

The Australian Professional’s One-Stop Library for Industrial, Maintenance and Safety Insights and Updates

Welcome to our growing library of content to help you make wise purchasing decisions for your industrial, maintenance and safety supplies.

Over the years, we have built this compilation of Buyer's Guides, Featured News and Brands and How-To articles with the Australian reader in mind. 

Buyer's Guides

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Best Practices on V-Belt Installation & Maintenance - AIMS Industrial Supplies
Installation

Best Practices on V-Belt Installation & Maintenance

Get it right the first time—optimize your belt life, system performance, and uptime. Installing and maintaining a V-belt isn’t just about fitting it on the pulleys. It’s about maximizing belt lifespan, reducing downtime, and ensuring safety. At AIMS Industrial, we support your process with easy-to-understand guides that make belt maintenance easier and more accurate than ever. How Do I Install a V-Belt Properly? Power off all equipment and ensure its locked out. Fit the belt over the pulley grooves—do not force or stretch it. Adjust pulley positions to allow proper belt fit. Tension the belt according to spec (see next section). PRO TIP: Use a Belt Tension Tester to get accurate results every time.Choose from our: Single barrel tester (15kg) – ideal for individual belts Double barrel tester (30kg) – perfect for joined or multiple belts Both options are designed to measure belt tension accurately during installation or routine maintenance, helping extend belt life and minimise downtime. How Do I Tension a V-Belt? Use a tension gauge or follow the manufacturer’s deflection recommendations. Too loose = slippage. Too tight = bearing wear. How Often Should V-Belts Be Inspected? Check belts as part of your routine maintenance schedule—ideally: Monthly for high-use or industrial applications Quarterly for moderate-use machines Look for cracks, fraying, misalignment, or stretching. What Causes V-Belt Slippage? Incorrect tension Worn or dirty pulleys Oil or grease contamination Excessive wear or age How Do I Prevent V-Belt Misalignment? Use a straightedge, laser alignment tool, or pulley alignment app. Misaligned belts cause heat buildup, uneven wear, and energy loss. What Are the Signs of V-Belt Wear or Failure? Replace the belt if you see: Cracks or splits Glazing or shine Squealing noises Frayed edges Belt slipping or jumping Don’t wait until failure—proactive replacement saves cost and downtime. How Do I Replace a V-Belt? Power off and lockout the system. Loosen the tensioner or move pulleys to release the belt. Remove the worn belt and inspect pulleys for damage. Install the new belt, ensuring no twists or forceful stretching. Tension and align using proper tools or manufacturer specs. Can I Use Multiple V-Belts on the Same Drive? Yes—and no need to match if you're using high-tolerance belts like Gates.They stretch slightly in use, compensating for minor length differences. But with Aramid/Kevlar belts, matching is essential—they don’t stretch at all. Tip: Always replace all belts in a set together. Mixing old and new leads to uneven wear and reduced lifespan. Do V-Belts Require Lubrication? No. Never lubricate a V-belt. Keep belts and pulleys: Clean Dry Free from oil, grease, and debris Contaminants reduce grip, increase slippage, and deteriorate belt material. Final Thoughts Proper installation and maintenance of your V-belts can extend equipment life, reduce downtime, and save money. With smart tools, AI-driven support, and a commitment to an exceptional user experience, AIMS Industrial is here to make every belt install easier, safer, and more reliable. Shop replacement V-belts or speak to our team for expert help today. Looking for V-belts near you? We’ve got you covered! Whether you need a quick replacement or want to upgrade, local stock of quality V-belts is ready to keep your machines running smooth. At AIMS Industrial, we offer a wide range of V-belts in all major profiles, plus expert advice and fast delivery right to your door. Just tell us what you need, and we’ll help you find the perfect fit! Not all V-belts are built the same. Get the lowdown on types, materials, and what makes each one tick. Up Next:Troubleshooting & V-Belt Performance: Common Issues & Expert Fixes Pair this with our How to Measure a V-Belt guide for the right replacement size every time.

10 Reasons To Buy B-Safe Self-Retracting Lanyards - AIMS Industrial Supplies
Buyer’s Guides

10 Reasons To Buy B-Safe Self-Retracting Lanyards

A retractable lanyard has a restoring spring that keeps the wire rope or webbing taut, which allows it to be activated immediately in case of a fall. You can use the B-Safe retractable lanyard when working on high buildings, bridges, roofs and other workplaces where there are fall hazards. You might consider choosing it over a standard shock-absorbing lanyard for the following reasons: Weighing only 1.2 kg, it’s very lightweight and compact. It gives you freedom of movement that is not possible with a longer shock absorber. Once it’s tied to an anchor point, you can move around easily to accomplish your task. The energy absorber is contained within the compact unit, so the risk of trips and falls caused by the lanyard dragging next to the worker are minimised. With a shorter “activation distance”, it reduces the risk of you hitting the ground or any obstructions at a lower level in the case of a fall. With a maximum length of 2.5 metres, it gives extended reach and versatility when working at heights. It’s manufactured in Australia. It’s tested to AS/NZS 1891.3 standards. It’s a cost-effective and versatile anchoring system. It has a built-in webbing guide, encased within the tough impact-resistant cover, that prevents twisting. It comes complete with two twist lock karabiners, making it safer compared to screw-type karabiners. Important: The safe working load limit of the B-Safe Self-Retracting Lanyard is one person up to 100 kgs, and it must be connected to a full body harness and a reliable anchor point rated to at least 15 kN. Shop for B-Safe self-retracting lanyards now. AIMS’ Note on Buying Industrial Supplies Breadth and depth of brands and categories: Go with a supplier that offers a wide range of reputable brands across multiple categories and sub-categories. Bulk purchase discounts: For large orders, check if you can take advantage of volume leverage. Some suppliers offer business accounts* that give you access to special pricing (volume discounts), preferential support and even credit eligibility (subject to supplier approval, terms and conditions). Product and service information: Evaluate the completeness and usefulness of data in their online product listings. Prudent suppliers will include as much useful information as possible to help you assess and compare products. In terms of service info, the supplier’s FAQs (if any) will give you a good idea of their standard policies*, processes and commitments. Promotions: Check for ongoing promotional campaigns so you can get the best prices. Many suppliers run regular discount-based promos. Some can point you to government-hosted rebate programmes like the SafeWork NSW $1000 Small Business Rebate. Safety compliance: Make sure the product in question meets Australian safety standards and regulations, especially if there are relevant compliance requirements or work health and safety (WHS) laws that apply to your business or state. Look for relevant certifications and markings where necessary. Supplier reliability: Choose reputable suppliers with a proven track record of delivering quality products and reliable customer service. Warranty and support: Check warranty terms and after-sales support* options, as this can be crucial in case of product defects or performance issues. Lead time and availability: Confirm product availability and estimated delivery times to avoid delays in your projects. Returns: Familiarise yourself with the suppliers returns and exchange policy in case you receive incorrect or damaged items. Delivery: Clarify delivery terms, including estimated delivery times, shipping costs and who handles insurance during transit (where applicable). *Need help with a purchase decision? Contact us directly via chat or send an email to sales@aimsindustrial.com.au.

General FAQs about V-Belt - AIMS Industrial Supplies
Buyer’s Guides

General FAQs about V-Belt

Do V-belts require lubrication?No, V-belts do not require lubrication and should be kept free of oil and grease

What Is A V-Belt And How Does It Work? - AIMS Industrial Supplies
Basics

What Is A V-Belt And How Does It Work?

What is a drive belt? A drive belt transfers rotational power between two pulleys, replacing a chain or direct coupling. The most common industrial type is the V-belt — a trapezoidal rubber-and-fabric belt that wedges into matching pulley grooves under load, multiplying friction without slip. Drive belts run pumps, compressors, fans, conveyors, ride-on mowers, and most plant machinery. Modern variants include cogged V-belts, banded (joined) V-belts for shock loads, timing belts for synchronous drives, and poly-V (multi-rib) belts for car engines. When your equipment runs smoothly, your operations do too. One component quietly doing the heavy lifting behind the scenes? The V-belt. Whether you’re a mechanic, plant manager, or weekend warrior, understanding how V-belts work — and choosing the right one — can save you costly downtime. What Is a V-Belt? A V belt is a mechanical power transmission belt with a trapezoidal (V-shaped) cross-section. It's designed to fit snugly into pulley grooves, creating high friction and efficient torque transfer from a motor to the driven component. Key Features: Trapezoidal shape for better grip and reduced slippage Commonly made of rubber, with reinforced cords Used across industries: HVAC, mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and more Why V-Belts Outperform Flat Belts When comparing V-belts and flat belts, the advantages are clear: More Stability – The wedging effect reduces lateral movement. Better Alignment – The V-shape naturally centers the belt. Less Slippage – More grip equals more reliable torque transfer. Energy Efficient – Less energy loss due to slippage. For power transmission that needs to stay steady under pressure, V-belts offer a dependable upgrade. How Long Do V-Belts Last? A well-maintained V-belt can last thousands of hours — but only if you take care of it. Here’s what impacts lifespan: Proper Tensioning – Too tight = stress. Too loose = slippage. Accurate Alignment – Misalignment causes uneven wear. Regular Inspection – Spot cracks or frays before they fail. Tip: Schedule regular belt checks in your preventive maintenance routine to avoid costly surprises. Where Are V-Belts Commonly Used? V-belts are the unsung heroes of: Industrial Equipment (conveyors, compressors) Agricultural Machinery (tractors, harvesters) Automotive Systems (fans, alternators) Home Appliances (washing machines, HVAC units) If it spins and it needs power, chances are there’s a V-belt in the mix. What Are the Disadvantages? No product is perfect — and V-belts do have some limitations: Can Wear Quickly if misaligned or over tensioned. Not Ideal for High-Speed or High-Torque applications. May Require More Frequent Maintenance than synchronous belts. Still, when used in the right setting, they offer excellent value and performance. V-Belts vs. Timing Belts Here’s the quick comparison: Feature V-Belt Timing Belt Power Transfer Friction-based Tooth-based (synchronous) Slippage Possible (if worn) No slip Application General-purpose High precision (e.g., camshafts) Timing belts are precise — but V-belts are versatile and cost-effective. V-Belt vs. Serpentine Belt A serpentine belt is actually a multi-ribbed version of a V-belt, commonly found in modern vehicles. It drives multiple accessories (alternator, water pump, A/C) using just one long belt. It’s more space-efficient, but also requires more tension control. Looking for V-belts near you? We’ve got you covered! Whether you need a quick replacement or want to upgrade, local stock of quality V-belts is ready to keep your machines running smooth. At AIMS Industrial, we offer a wide range of V-belts in all major profiles — plus expert advice and fast delivery right to your door. Just tell us what you need, and we’ll help you find the perfect fit! Not all V-belts are built the same. Get the lowdown on types, materials, and what makes each one tick. Up Next: Understanding the Types and Construction of V-Belts: A Modern Guide Cross-reference our V-Belt Measurement guide for classical (A, B, C, D), narrow (SPA, SPB, SPC, SPZ) and FRAS sections. More Common Questions What is a drive belt used for? A drive belt transmits power from one rotating shaft to another by friction between the belt and pulleys. They are used in automotive engines to drive alternators, water pumps and air conditioning compressors; in industrial machinery to drive fans, pumps and conveyors; and in agricultural equipment to drive cutters, augers and PTO components. Drive belts allow flexibility in shaft positioning, absorb shock loads, and slip safely if the driven load jams. How long does a drive belt last? Drive belt life depends heavily on application, tension, alignment and operating conditions. Automotive serpentine belts often last 60,000 to 100,000 kilometres with regular inspection. Industrial V-belts can last anywhere from a few months to several years depending on duty cycle, belt quality, and how well the drive is tensioned and aligned. Inspect belts regularly for cracks, glazing, fraying and missing chunks — any of these mean replacement. What's the difference between a V-belt and a drive belt? Drive belt is the general term for any belt that transmits power between shafts. A V-belt is a specific type of drive belt with a trapezoidal cross-section that wedges into matching grooved pulleys. Other drive belt types include flat belts, timing belts (toothed for synchronous drive), and ribbed serpentine belts (multiple parallel ribs). V-belts dominate industrial drives because they grip well, transmit high power and are inexpensive to replace. How do I know what drive belt I need? Identify the belt by reading the part number printed on the belt itself — for example A48, SPB1800, or 5L420 — and order the same number. If the markings are worn off, measure the outside circumference with a tape measure, the top width, and the depth. Drive belts use standard cross-section codes (A, B, C, SPA, SPB, SPC) that match the pulley grooves — using the wrong section will damage the belt and the pulleys.

Product Guides

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bordo

AIMS Tap & Die Selection Guide: Hand, Spiral Point, Spiral Flute & Forming

A practical guide to selecting the right tap and die for the thread you're cutting. Covers hand taps (taper, plug, bottoming), spiral point taps for through holes, spiral flute taps for blind holes, thread forming taps for ductile material, machine nut taps, die nuts, button dies and die holders. Includes thread system selection (metric, BSP, BSPT, NPT, UNC, UNF, BSW, BSF), tap drill sizing, brand selection across Sutton Tools and Bordo, and AS/NZS/ISO standards.

bordo

AIMS Drill Bit Selection Guide: Choose by Material, Application & Cost

A practical guide to selecting the right drill bit for the workpiece you're cutting. Covers HSS, cobalt HSS, solid carbide, carbide-tipped, masonry, tile and glass drill bits, plus jobber, stub, step and SDS sub-types. Includes drill point geometry, coatings, brand selection across Sutton Tools, Bordo and P&N, and AS/NZS/ISO standards relevant to Australian industry.

AWG

Sheet Metal & Wire Gauge Chart: AWG, SWG, BWG to mm

Complete sheet metal and wire gauge cross-reference — AWG (American Wire Gauge), SWG (British Imperial Standard Wire Gauge), and BWG (Birmingham Wire Gauge) converted to millimetres, with Australian usage notes and selection guidance for fabrication, electrical, and tube wall applications.

Conversion Chart

Metric to Imperial Conversion Chart: mm, Inches, Drill # & Gauge Cross-Reference

Master engineering conversion reference — 225 rows covering 0.1mm to 25mm, every standard drill number (#1-#80), letter drill (A-Z), AWG gauge, SWG gauge and common imperial fractions in a single cross-reference table.

Safety Tips

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FAQs on Hard Hats on AIMS Industrial
Compliance

FAQs on Hard Hats (Colour Meanings, Types, Maintenance, Expiry Etc)

Here is a quick checklist for when you are buying or taking care of your next hard hat.

Common Causes of Electric Motor Breakdown - AIMS Industrial Supplies
Downtime

Common Causes of Electric Motor Breakdown

Here are some of the most common causes: Bearing issues account for around 50% of failures and is the leading cause of motor breakdowns that are often associated with: Improper lubrication: Insufficient or wrong type of lubricant can lead to friction and wear. Contamination: Dirt, dust or moisture can enter them and cause damage. Excessive loads: Applying load greater than what the motor is rated for can put undue stress on them. Normal wear and tear: Like any mechanical component, they wear over time and need replacement. Winding failures typically cause: Overheating: This can damage the insulating layer, leading to shorts and ultimately to burnout. Common causes include overload, poor ventilation or blocked cooling passages. Voltage spikes or fluctuations: Unstable power supply can harm insulation. Surge protectors and voltage regulators can help prevent this. Moisture or contamination: These can degrade insulation and cause malfunctions. Abrasion or physical damage: Mechanical impact or foreign objects that enter the motor can damage windings, so ensure your motor has the right ingress protection (IP) rating for your application. External factors typically caused by: Overloading: Operating the motor beyond its rated capacity can lead to overheating and premature failure. Vibration: Excessive vibration from unbalanced loads or misalignment can stress components and lead to breakdowns. Improper installation: Incorrect mounting or alignment can put undue strain on the motor. Immediate environment: Exposure to environments with harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, dust or corrosive chemicals can accelerate wear and tear of the motor and its components. Other less common causes: Rotor issues: Unbalanced rotors, shaft cracks or excessive magnetic pull can occasionally cause problems. Low resistance: Issues like corrosion or overheating can weaken insulation, causing shorts and leaks. Voltage imbalance and fluctuation: The former has a more specific effect on multi-phase motors, while the latter can affect all types of motors. We discussed more about them in our other article on electric motor lifespans. Proper maintenance -- including regular inspections, lubrication and cleaning -- can significantly extend the motor’s lifespan, reduce the risk of breakdowns and consequently help you prevent unplanned downtimes. Most importantly, make sure you have the right one for the job. We put together a quick guide to help you choose the appropriate electric motor for your application. It's always wise to follow best practice, consult the manufacturer's recommendations for proper electric motor care and implement proper preventive measures. AIMS' Note on Safe Use of Belt-Driven Systems Power down: Before any inspection, maintenance, or adjustment, make sure to completely shut down the power to the machine and apply a lockout/tagout (LOTO) device to prevent accidental restarts. Right belt for the system: Keep in mind that v-belts (especially cogged / notched / wrapped belts) are different from synchronous /timing / ‘toothed’ belts. Some mistake the cogs for teeth but remember that cogged belts run on V-shaped pulleys that do not have teeth. Are you operating where flammable substances are present? Maybe you need fire-resistant anti-static (FRAS) belts – or maybe heat-resistant and oil-resistant belts will do. We compared them in this FAQ. Safe attire: Avoid loose clothing, jewelry and long hair that could get caught in the moving parts. Ensure proper fit of workwear without compromising comfort, dexterity and protection. Tie back long hair and secure loose items. Safeguards in place: Never operate a belt-driven system with the guards removed or bypassed. These guards are there for your protection. Maintenance and replacement: Regularly inspect belts and pulleys for wear and tear. Maintain proper belt tension and alignment as specified by the manufacturer. When replacing the belt, make sure you get the proper fit and measurement of the system. These accessories and maintenance kits (eg alignment tools, belt measurers, pulley gauge sets, spacers, tensioners etc) come in handy. Cleanliness: Keep the area around belt drives free of debris and clutter that could get caught or cause a fire hazard. (Refer to our content library's sub-index of articles about belt-driven systems and electric motors for more information.) People Also Ask — Electric Motor Breakdown Q: What are the most common causes of electric motor failure? Most motor failures trace back to a handful of causes: bearing failure, winding insulation breakdown, overloading, contamination and supply problems. Bearings are the single most common culprit, failing from wear, poor lubrication, misalignment or vibration. Winding insulation degrades from heat, moisture and electrical stress until it shorts. Overloading and frequent starting overheat the motor and shorten its life. Dust, dirt and moisture get into the windings and bearings and accelerate wear. And supply issues such as voltage imbalance or single-phasing put extra heat and stress on the motor. The good news is that most of these are reduced by correct sizing, alignment, lubrication and protection. Q: Why do motor bearings fail? Bearings fail mainly from lubrication problems, contamination, misalignment and vibration. Too little grease, too much grease, or the wrong grease all shorten bearing life, as does grease that has aged or been contaminated. Dirt, water and fine particles work into the bearing and abrade the races and balls. Misalignment between the motor and the driven equipment, or a belt drive tensioned too tightly, loads the bearing unevenly and overheats it. Vibration from imbalance or a poor foundation hammers the bearing over time. Regular, correct lubrication, good alignment, sensible belt tension and keeping contaminants out are what give bearings their full service life. Q: How does overloading damage a motor? When a motor is asked to deliver more than its rated load, it draws more current, and that extra current generates extra heat in the windings. Heat is the enemy of insulation — sustained overheating cooks the winding insulation and steadily shortens its life until it eventually breaks down and the motor fails. Overloading can come from an oversized or jammed driven load, frequent starting, or a motor that was undersized for the job in the first place. Protecting against it means sizing the motor correctly for the load, fitting proper overload protection, and addressing anything that makes the driven equipment harder to turn. Q: Can moisture and contamination really cause motor failure? Yes — contamination is a leading cause of failure, especially in dusty, wet or washdown environments. Moisture entering the windings lowers the insulation resistance and promotes shorts and corrosion, while dust and dirt insulate the motor so it runs hotter and also work into bearings as an abrasive. This is exactly why enclosure and IP rating selection matters: a motor with the right ingress protection for its environment keeps these contaminants out. Where motors sit idle in damp conditions, anti-condensation measures help. Keeping motors clean, sealed appropriately and dry is one of the simplest ways to extend their life. Q: How can I prevent premature motor breakdown? Prevention starts at selection: size the motor correctly for the load, choose the right enclosure and IP rating for the environment, and align and mount it properly. In service, the big wins are regular lubrication to the correct schedule and grease, keeping the motor clean and cool with clear ventilation, checking alignment and belt tension, and fitting overload and supply protection so faults trip before they cook the windings. Listening and feeling for changes in noise, vibration and temperature catches bearing trouble early. A motor that is correctly applied and then maintained on a simple routine will usually run for many years; neglect on any of those fronts is what cuts that life short. Need pulleys? Browse the AIMS range at pulleys.

Does Your Business Need an Anti-Slip Solution?
Anti-Slip

Does Your Business Need an Anti-Slip Solution?

If these work health and safety (WHS) statistics fail to convince you to install anti-slip solutions where your staff and customers walk, perhaps your legal duties will. Are anti-slip solutions mandated by law? Yes, as a business owner, you have a general duty of care. Put simply, you have WHS responsibilities. As we’ve emphasized in our slip resistance compliance guide: Slipping, tripping and falling are risks that can be associated with steps and stairs, and can lead to serious injuries. Under the WHS Act, the employer has a ‘duty of care’ to provide and maintain a safe and healthy workplace – all potential hazards must be identified, the associated risks assessed and then controls introduced to eliminate or reduce those risks as far as practicable. (Make sure to get your free copy of the guide here.) Your responsibility extends to making sure your customers, visitors, and any contractors are safe at your business premises. It is prescribed by Australian Standard AS1428.1 and a mandatory compliance requirement under the Building Code of Australia. Disclaimer: AIMS is not a WHS law expert, therefore the information provided here should be treated as general in nature and not be treated as specific, legal or professional advice. Our article about WHS laws only aims to compile resources that may be helpful to your business. Official sources of information are cited. Specific standards for different flooring surfaces Standards Australia has a compilation of the prescribed minimum slip resistance requirements for different flooring surfaces. Here are the links for your convenience: Designation Title AS 4586:2013 Amd 1:2017 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials AS 4586-2013 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials AS 4663-2013 Slip resistance measurement of existing pedestrian surfaces AS/NZS 3661.2:1994 Slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces, Part 2: Guide to the reduction of slip hazards AS/NZS 3661.2-1994 Slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces - Guide to the reduction of slip hazards AS/NZS 4586:2004 AMDT 1 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials AS/NZS 4586-2004 AMDT 1 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials HB 197:1999 An introductory guide to the slip resistance of pedestrian surface materials HB 197-1999 An introductory guide to the slip resistance of pedestrian surface materials SA HB 198:2014 Guide to the specification and testing of slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces Common slip and trip hazards You can refer to this comprehensive fact sheet from Safe Work Australia (SWA) when trying to identify what may possibly cause a slip or trip accident. For your convenience, we’ve simplified SWA’s list below. Common slip hazards: Spills of liquid or solid material Wet cleaning methods Wind-driven rain or snow through doorways Sudden change in floor surface (eg. joins between carpet and polished timber) Change from a wet to a dry surface Dusty and sandy surfaces Ramp incline Bumpy/Loose flooring Poor lighting Use of unsuitable footwear Common trip hazards: Ridges in floors or carpets Worn floor coverings Broken tiles Cracks and potholes in floors Changes in floor level Thresholds and doorstops Floor sockets and phone jacks Cables from power extension units Loads that obstruct vision Obstacles in traffic areas For more information, be sure to read our article about how you can prevent slips, trips and falls in the workplace. Which floor types need anti-slip solutions SWA’s fact sheet has a quick guide to help you figure out which kinds of surfaces get slippery in what situation: Floor Type Characteristics Concrete Rounded aggregate can be slippery when concrete wears. Interior surface is often sealed to prevent dusting and absorption of liquids - this can increase slipperiness. Terrazzo Gives good appearance and wears well but can be slippery when wet, when excess polish is used or when dusty. Quarry tiles, ceramic tiles Low water absorption and good resistance to chemicals. Slippery in wet conditions if smooth, but can be moulded with aggregate or profiles to improve slip resistance - special cleaning equipment may then be required. Glazed ceramic tiles Slippery when wet, particularly with soapy water. Some slip resistance treatments available, but preferable not to install these tiles on floors. Vinyl tiles and sheet Easy to clean. Use sheet form where frequent washing is required to avoid water getting under tiles. Slippery when wet, particularly if polished, however slip resistant vinyls are available. These have aggregates moulded in. Thicker and softer vinyls are more slip resistant than hard ones. Cork Must be sealed to prevent absorption of oil and water, but may then be slippery when wet. Steel plate Tends to be slippery when wet or oily, particularly when worn. Rubber Less effective in wet conditions. Must be fixed down well at the edges and joints or will cause a trip hazard. Plastic matting Interlocking PVC extrusions give good drainage and slip resistance. Hose down or steam clean. Carpet Carpet has a shorter life than hard floor surfaces, but it can be a cost-effective solution. Installations should be wall to wall, to avoid the hazard of a trip on edges. When used in small local areas, such as at entrances, it should be installed in a recess in the floor. Alternatively, it should be rubber-backed and with hardwearing tapered edges. Trolleys can be harder to push on carpet, but if larger wheels are fitted and the carpet does not have a deep pile, this is not a serious problem. Fiberglass gratings This product can have grit particles moulded into upper surface to provide very good slip resistance. Fluids are quickly drained away. We’re guessing there’s a big chance you’ll need an anti-slip solution for your business. Naturally, your next question will be which anti-slip solution is right for you, and we’ll cover that in the next article. For now, download our free guide to slip resistance compliance. In the meantime, here are some easy things that you can do quickly to prevent slips: Use anti-slip tapes Apply anti-slip coatings Install ladder run covers, safeplates and stair nosings Sub-Topics Law mandate Standards for floor surfaces Hazards Floor types People Also Ask — Anti-Slip Safety Solutions for Business Q: Why do businesses have a legal duty to address slip hazards? Under Australian work health and safety legislation, employers have a primary duty of care to eliminate or minimise risks to workers and others in the workplace, so far as is reasonably practicable. Slips, trips and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injury. Failure to implement adequate floor safety controls can expose employers to significant penalties and civil liability where injuries occur. Q: What types of anti-slip products are used in commercial and industrial settings? Common anti-slip solutions include anti-slip tapes applied to steps, ramps and transitions, anti-slip coatings for floor surfaces, anti-fatigue matting for standing work areas, interlocking rubber or PVC matting for wet or contaminated areas, and structural anti-slip nosings for stairways. The correct product depends on the surface material, contamination present and pedestrian traffic volume. Q: What is the difference between anti-slip tape and anti-slip coating? Anti-slip tape is a self-adhesive strip with a grit or textured surface applied to existing floors, typically to mark transition zones, steps or work area edges. Anti-slip floor coating is a paint or resin product applied across a larger floor area incorporating abrasive particles into the cured surface. Coatings provide more uniform coverage but require surface preparation and curing time; tapes are faster to install and easier to target specific hazard points. Q: How should anti-slip matting be maintained to remain effective? Anti-slip matting loses effectiveness if it becomes saturated with oil, grease or fine debris that fills the surface texture and reduces friction. Mats should be cleaned regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically by hosing, scrubbing and allowing to drain. Damaged mats with curled edges or tears are a trip hazard themselves and must be replaced promptly. Need anti-vibration mounts? Browse the AIMS range at anti-vibration mounts. Need anti-seize compounds? Browse the AIMS range at anti-seize compounds.

Hard Hats 101: Quick Guide - AIMS Industrial Supplies
Hard Hats

Hard Hats 101: Quick Guide

Hard hats are essential for safeguarding against head injuries in various industries. Here's a concise guide to help you choose and maintain the right.

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