Not all risks in the warehouse come with flashing lights and warning signs. Sometimes, the biggest danger can be found right under your feet. In high-traffic mezzanine areas - where foot traffic meets forklifts and gravity is just one misstep away - surface choice really matters.
As warehouses grow taller to maximise space, industrial mezzanine floors have become an indispensable tool in industrial operations. But with great heights comes great responsibility. The wrong flooring can turn a quick step into a serious injury. With safety top of mind, Unilin U7 Antislip mezzanine panels are engineered for performance. These panels offer R12-rated slip resistance - providing the grip your team needs to stay upright and injury-free.
In this article, we explore the essential role that Unilin U7 panels play in preventing slips, supporting compliance and creating safer industrial environments.
Understanding R12 slip resistance and its importance
The slip resistance of flooring is measured using the "R" rating system, which originates from a ramp test conducted under controlled conditions. R ratings range from R9 (minimal resistance) to R13 (extremely high resistance). R12 indicates a high level of slip resistance and is suitable for industrial settings that may be exposed to dust, moisture, or occasional oil residues.
Australian standards
In Australian warehouses, where weather conditions can bring in additional risks such as condensation or wet surfaces, having flooring with an R12 rating is essential. It's not just about meeting Australian Standards AS 4586-2013 - it’s more about preventing accidents before they happen.
Slippery mezzanine surfaces pose a real hazard. Whether it's a picker navigating a busy fulfilment centre or a trolley being wheeled across a platform, any loss of grip can lead to injury, downtime or expensive compensation claims.
Key characteristics of Unilin U7 antislip panels
Unilin’s U7 panels are engineered to combine strength with slip-resistant performance. Manufactured using high-density chipboard, each panel is treated with a factory-applied antislip surface layer that meets the rigorous R12 standard.
This textured coating isn’t just a veneer. It provides genuine underfoot traction, helping warehouse personnel maintain balance and control in fast-moving environments. The panels are also designed to handle substantial load capacity, making them suitable for both foot traffic and equipment.
Durability is another hallmark of the U7 panel. These boards are designed to resist wear, impact, and deformation over time, even in demanding operational conditions. That means fewer replacements, reduced maintenance costs and retaining your peace of mind.
Safety benefits of antislip mezzanine panels in warehouses
So, what does all this mean on the warehouse floor? Here are some of the safety benefits you can expect from antislip mezzanine panels:
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Reduced slip incidents: The R12-rated antislip surface significantly reduces the likelihood of falls during loading, packing and routine operations.
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Trolley and equipment stability: Whether you're moving carts, bins, or machinery, the panel surface improves wheel grip, minimising sudden shifts or tip-overs.
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Compliance with health and safety standards: Incorporating U7 panels supports adherence to occupational health and safety guidelines, helping businesses avoid fines and workplace injuries.
When paired up with safety features like handrails, toe boards and adequate signage, U7 panels can become part of an overarching risk mitigation strategy. In environments where pace and precision are everything, that added stability makes all the difference.
Industry use cases
Across multiple industries, Unilin U7 Antislip mezzanine panels continue to prove their worth in real-world applications:
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E-Commerce fulfilment centres: These fast-moving facilities demand surfaces that support rapid picking without compromising staff safety.
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Manufacturing plants: Especially in areas where machinery may leak oil or coolant, R12-rated panels help reduce hazards.
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Cold storage and food distribution: In refrigerated spaces where condensation is a constant issue, slip-resistant flooring is critical for both compliance and safety.
Complementing warehouse safety strategies
Flooring is just one element of a broader warehouse safety strategy. Unilin U7 Antislip panels can complement a range of other safety measures, helping to create a safer, more efficient workplace environment. These include:
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Guardrails and stair access: Well-positioned barriers and non-slip stair treads enhance vertical access safety and prevent accidental falls from elevated areas, especially when integrated with U7 panels at entry and exit points.
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Anti-fatigue mats: When used in tandem with U7 panels in standing work zones, these mats help reduce physical strain on staff, improving comfort, posture, and productivity over long shifts.
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Clear signage and markings: Highlighting high-risk zones, changes in elevation, or traffic flow direction ensures consistent safety protocols and helps prevent confusion or collisions in busy warehouse environments. Pairing these visual cues with R12-rated U7 surfaces improves hazard awareness and traction underfoot.
Of course, even the best flooring requires upkeep. Regular cleaning and inspection of mezzanine panels ensure the antislip surface maintains its performance. Staff training also plays a vital role - employees should understand the function and benefit of safety flooring, and how to keep it effective through good housekeeping.
Why choose Unilin U7 panels through Unistor
Unistor doesn’t just supply mezzanine flooring. We offer end-to-end expertise in designing, manufacturing, and installing safe, fit-for-purpose mezzanine solutions across Australia.
Choosing Unilin U7 Antislip mezzanine panels through Unistor means:
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Customised fit-outs: Our expert team works with you to configure the panels around your facility’s specific layout, load requirements and operational flow.
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Guaranteed quality: Backed by Unilin’s reputation and Unistor’s rigorous installation standards, these panels are built to last.
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Regulatory assurance: Every system we deliver is engineered to meet or exceed relevant safety and compliance standards.
Whether you are outfitting a new warehouse or upgrading an older mezzanine, Unistor brings over thirty years of hands-on industry experience to ensure your flooring is both practical and protective.
Conclusion
Slips and falls may be common in warehouse environments, but they’re also preventable. With Unilin U7 Antislip mezzanine panels, warehouse managers and operations professionals can take a proactive step toward creating safer, more efficient workspaces.
From high slip resistance and load-bearing strength to ease of integration and compliance, these panels are more than just a surface - they are a smart investment in your team’s wellbeing.
Ready to elevate your warehouse safety? Get in touch with Unistor today for expert advice and tailored mezzanine flooring solutions.
