High friction surfacing plays a critical role in keeping roads safe across the UK. It reduces skidding, shortens braking distances, and has been proven to cut accidents significantly at high-risk locations. But what exactly is it, how does it work, and where do legal standards require its use? We cover the essentials below.
What Is High Friction Surfacing?
High friction surfacing (HFS) is a specialist road surface treatment designed to increase skid resistance between vehicle tyres and the road. It works by combining a resin binder with a tough aggregate called calcined bauxite. Once applied, the surface creates thousands of tiny contact points, known as a micro-texture, that give tyres far more grip than a standard road surface.
There are two application methods. Cold-applied systems use a liquid resin binder spread onto the surface first, followed by the calcined bauxite aggregate. Hot-applied systems use a pre-mixed material that bonds to the road through heat. Both methods deliver excellent skid resistance, though each suits different site conditions and traffic levels.
How Does High Friction Surfacing Improve Road Safety?
The effectiveness of HFS is well documented. Since the first UK trials in 1967, studies have consistently shown accident reductions of around 50% or more at treated locations. The calcined bauxite aggregate is highly resistant to both abrasion and polishing, which means the anti-skid properties last far longer than conventional surface treatments.
Shorter braking distances are the most obvious benefit. Vehicles can stop more quickly and safely, even in wet or adverse weather conditions. HFS also creates a visible change in road surface texture and colour, alerting drivers to hazards ahead and reinforcing speed reduction messages.
The financial case is equally compelling. With the associated costs of a single non-motorway fatal accident calculated at around £1.4 million, the investment in HFS delivers significant savings. The London Accident Analysis Unit reported that treating 1,700 roads in London alone produced savings of £24 million from a total outlay of just £3 million.
Where Is High Friction Surfacing Used?
HFS is most commonly applied at locations where vehicles need to brake sharply or navigate tight conditions. Typical applications include:
- Junction approaches — where frequent braking and accelerating increases the risk of rear-end and side collisions.
- Pedestrian crossings — helping vehicles stop in time to protect vulnerable road users.
- Roundabout approaches — where vehicles must reduce speed quickly on entry and exit.
- Sharp bends and slip roads — high-speed areas with tight bends that demand maximum tyre grip.
- Cycle lanes and bus lanes — coloured HFS delineates dedicated lanes while improving safety for cyclists and passengers.
- Car parks, ramps, and pedestrian walkways — anti-skid surfacing prevents slips and falls, particularly during poor weather.
HFS is also used in traffic calming schemes at accident-prone locations, reinforcing speed reduction measures and improving driver awareness.
Where Is High Friction Surfacing Legally Required?
Legal requirements around HFS centre on compliance with established highway standards.
Clause 924
In the UK, anti-skid surfacing materials and their installation must comply with Clause 924 — Skid Resistant Surfacing of the Specification for Highway Works. This clause sets out the physical properties that both hot-applied and cold-applied surface coatings must meet.
BA/HAPAS Type 1 approval
Products used must hold BBA/HAPAS Type 1 approval, confirming they have been independently tested and certified for use on public highways. Contractors carrying out HFS work on public roads must also be BBA/HAPAS approved installers.
NVQ Level 2 qualification
Operative competence is another legal consideration. All personnel applying HFS should hold an NVQ Level 2 qualification in high friction surfacing, along with CSCS Site Safety training. Supervisors require NVQ Level 3.
The RSTA’s Code of Practice for High Friction Surfacing provides definitive best practice guidance for both clients and contractors, covering specification, installation, health and safety, and quality assurance.
High Friction Surfacing from Northern Marking
Northern Marking delivers professional anti-skid high friction surfacing across Manchester and Northern England. We hold Sector 7 scheme approval, are authorised to carry out Section 278 works on public highways, and are ISO 9001:2015 quality assured.
With over 20 years of specialist experience and local council approval, we combine technical expertise with a straightforward process from site survey through to final inspection. If you need HFS for a road, car park, or pedestrian area, get in touch with our team for honest advice and a quote today.
