Slips: A Barrier to Independence for NDIS Participants 

Slip hazards prevent people living with disabilities, including NDIS participants, from navigating their homes as freely and confidently as they would like. 

When individuals are overly cautious, it limits their participation in everyday activities, including hobbies and socializing independently. As such, managing slip risks is a core responsibility for occupational therapists (OTs) and NDIS providers. 

Drawing on years of experience supporting NDIS projects across Australia, this guide explores practical home modifications for NDIS participants, with a focus on slip prevention coatings that center on safety, wellbeing, and compliance.

Key Takeaways 

• Slips and falls can reduce confidence and independence for NDIS participants. 
  
• Non-slip coatings are an easy, low-disruption solution to slip hazards 
  
• Slip resistance compliance is important for both safety and NDIS funding submissions  
  
• Stellmann partners with OTs through consultation, compliance reporting, and installation services 
  
• Coatings can be applied by certified installers or with Stellmann's DIY kits 

Roles of an OT to NDIS Participants  

NDIS participants are individuals living with permanent, significant disabilities who have qualified for support by the National Disability Insurance Scheme.   

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NDIS occupational therapists (OTs) provide services to promote the well-being of participants and increase their ability to live independently. 

Rather than provide short-term fixes, occupational therapists aim to improve participants' quality of life. They empower participants to carry out everyday activities, develop skills, and adapt to their environment. 

Here's what an OT does:  

• Conduct functional assessment: evaluate an individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional needs as well as their homes and social dynamics to identify barriers to their independence. 
  
• Set and plan goals: work with participants to create personalised, achievable goals aligned with their abilities, interests, and aspirations.  
  
• Prescribe Solutions: recommend and help implement interventions (such as assistive technologies and home modifications) that support NDIS participants in reaching their goals and reducing barriers. 

For example, an OT and an NDIS participant might set a goal to improve mobility at home. If the OT identifies slip hazards in certain areas as a barrier to this goal, they can recommend home modifications that improve slip resistance. 

Slip Resistance Compliance in NDIS Home Modifications 

Slip resistance compliance in Australia is guided by two standards: AS 4586 and AS 4663. Unfortunately, many homes are not designed to meet the slip resistance standards needed to keep NDIS participants safe and independent. 

AS 4586 and AS 4663 

AS 4586 categorizes the slip resistance of new surfaces or flooring materials in wet and dry conditions. It uses a slip rating scale from P0 - P5, where higher numbers indicate a higher slip resistance.  

 
AS 4586, along with the National Construction Code (NCC), outlines requirements for building homes to ensure compliance. It is often referenced when selecting floors and fittings during construction or major home modifications. 

On the other hand, AS 4663 defines methods for testing and classifying slip resistance on existing surfaces. It helps identify areas that need maintenance or modifications to stay compliant and safe for NDIS participants. 

Maintaining compliance reduces the risk of slips and falls for NDIS participants. It also helps OTs uphold their professional duty of care and meet legal obligations during home modifications. 

Considering the workload and NDIS paperwork that OTs deal with regularly, the team at Stellmann helps OTs interpret and apply these standards to simplify compliance. 

Testing Slip Resistance 

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Independent testing providers accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) use various methods to assess the slip resistance in high-risk areas. However, these services can be costly and impractical for residential settings. 

As an alternative, OTs and builders can visually check for smooth or worn surfaces, observe how surfaces behave when wet, or refer to manufacturer data for the initial slip rating of flooring. In residential settings, these ratings usually last 3-8 years before the slip resistance needs an upgrade.  

Professional Duty of Care and Legal Obligations 

Occupational therapists (OTs) and providers working with NDIS participants have a professional duty of care to: 

• Offer safe, ethical, and evidence-based service 
  
• Act in the best interests of NDIS participants 
  
• Advocate for participants, supporting their participation and independence 

Their legal obligations are: 

• Comply with NDIS rules, funding requirements, and professional standards. 
  
• Offer accurate assessment, documentation, and justify support as ‘reasonable and necessary.' 

Regulatory Provisions for NDIS Home Modifications  

The funding for NDIS home modifications is guided by several regulatory frameworks, including the National Construction Code (NCC), relevant Australian Standards, and specific NDIS guidelines (outlined in the NDIS Act 2013 and NDIS Rules).  

Key requirements include: 

• All NDIS-funded building projects must comply with the NCC and other relevant state or territory building codes, as well as applicable Australian Standards. 
  
• Modifications must meet the NDIS criteria of being 'reasonable and necessary' for the participant's disability. 
  
• Builders or contractors must provide quotes that demonstrate compliance with the NCC and local authority requirements.  
  
• All home modifications must be safe, compliant, and of high quality. 

Major Challenges in NDIS Home Modifications 

NDIS participants and OTs often face challenges in implementing home modifications. They include:  

1. Insufficient Funding 

NDIS Review reported that over 50% participants struggle to secure adequate funding, making it difficult to implement home modifications that support their goals. 

To secure funding, OTs and participants must provide detailed justification, showing that proposed modifications are both functionally relevant and cost-effective. For example, applying non-slip coatingsis a cost-effective alternative to replacing entire bathroom floors. 

2. Managing NDIS Plan Budgets 

Many participants struggle with managing their budget effectively, which can lead to underutilizing funds. They may prioritise urgent needs, leaving little room for essential modifications. 

3. Aesthetic Constraints 

Some NDIS participants are hesitant to pursue modifications that change the look or feel of their home. More invasive or complex installations can make a space look clinical, affecting residents' comfort. 

4. Modification Complications 

Some home modifications can create new accessibility issues. For instance, flooring replacements can block access to key areas until completion. Low-quality coatings and poor application can also result in uneven thresholds, poor adhesion, and reduced durability. 

Recognizing these challenges allows for empathy and the development of more innovative solutions tailored to participants' needs. 

Slip-Resistant Coatings: The Ideal NDIS Home Modification Solution  

Non-slip coatings form a layer of microscopic particles that enhance grip and reduce the risk of slips. They can be applied to a wide range of surfaces, including tiles, concrete, natural stone, wood, vinyl, marble, acrylics, and laminate.  

For simple, low-disruption home modifications that reduce slip hazards, anti-slip coatings are a strong choice. They allow participants to maintain their daily routines during the application. 

Benefits of Premium Anti-slip Coatings 

• Durability: Designed to withstand harsh weather and abrasion from daily wear or cleaning.  
  
• Compliance: Tested and certified to meet AS 4586 slip resistance standards 
  
• Hygiene: Seamless finishes reduce crevices where dirt and bacterial growth accumulate. 
  
• Minimal Disruption: Quick application with minimal downtime and no structural changes.  
  
• Affordability: Offers a safe, compliant solution without the cost of full replacements 
  
• Aesthetics: Preserves the original appearance of floors and other surfaces. 

While budget anti-slip coatings may seem appealing, those without independent testing may offer inaccurate slip ratings.  

 
Suppliers like Stellmann offer premium, CSIRO-certified coatings that are durable and eco-friendly. This certification is especially important to demonstrate compliance when recommending modifications under an NDIS plan. 

Who Can Install Non-Slip Coatings? 

A common question we get from OTs and NDIS providers is, "Who can apply the coating?" Our answer is: it depends on what works best for your needs.  

At Stellmann, we offer two installation options: 

1. Professional Installation 

If you prefer a fully managed service, Stellmann has a nationwide network of certified installers who handle everything from surface prepping to coating installation.   

Our partners understand NDIS requirements and work alongside OTs and builders to ensure home modifications meet safety and compliance goals.  

2. DIY Application 

For small-scale projects on low-risk areas, you can apply Stellmann's coatings at home yourself with a simple 3-step process: 

• Clean surface 
  
• Prime 
  
• Apply Stellmann non-slip coating 

We offer a detailed guide on how to apply non-slip coatings, along with DIY applicator tool kits. This makes it easy for OTs and participants to take on quick home modifications and improve grip on small surfaces. 

Improve NDIS Home Modification Outcomes with Stellmann  

Stellmann's non-slip coatings are designed for high-risk care environments. They install fast, cure overnight, and meet Australia's strictest slip resistance standards. 

Here's how Stellmann partners with OTs, NDIS families, and participants: 

1. Consultation 

Consult with Stellmann to discuss your participants' needs. We'll assess the surfaces (tiles or ramps), identify risks, and document current slip ratings. Our inspection and testing include: 

• An OT-ready compliance report for NDIS funding applications 
  
• An on-site sample test patch for visual & textural sign off 
  
• A fixed quote for installation (if required) — valid for NDIS submissions 

2. Supply and Installation  

We'll offer you coating recommendations that meet the relevant slip resistance standards for residential use. You'll receive CSIRO-certified non-slip coatings with an easy application process that features: 

• A 1-coat system 
  
• Fast installation  
  
• An invisible finish 
  
• Water-based and odour-free materials 

3. Compliance  

Every project delivers a CSIRO-certified surface, fully compliant with AS 4586 (rated P3, P4, or P5), so you can be audit-ready and confident in fulfilling your duty of care 

FAQs 

Q: What are Some Top Home Modifications for NDIS Participants? 

Answer: 

• Applying non-slip coatings on floors 
  
• Widening entryways 
  
• Installing ramps 
  
• Installing grab bars in showers and tubs 
  
• Replacing door knobs with handles 

Q: What are the Benefits of Home Modifications for NDIS Participants? 

Answer: 

NDIS home modifications reduce the risk of accident and injury in the following ways: 

• Remove Potential Hazards: Slip-resistant solutions, such as coatings and mats, can eliminate slip hazards. 
  
• Make Navigation Easier: Installing non-slip mats in entryways, grab bars in bathrooms, or non-slip coatings on stair nosings can make movement easier and safer. 

Q: What are NDIS and NDIS Home Modifications? 

Answer: 

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Federal Government initiative that provides support services for individuals living with permanent, significant disabilities. The support includes a funding budget that covers home modifications for accessibility and safety. 

Conclusion  

Slips and falls are a major risk in areas with wet floors, smooth surfaces, or outdoor microalgal growth. They put participants at risk of increased dependency, reduced community participation, and long-term financial costs. 

For NDIS occupational therapists wanting to enhance safety without compromising aesthetics, Stellmann provides CSIRO-certified non-slip coating services that are: 

• Non-Invasive 
  
• Compliant with AS 4586  
  
• Fundable under NDIS Home Modifications for bathrooms, ramps, and walkways 

Looking for detailed product information and application guidance on non-slip coatings? Check out Stellmann's Products, Specs, and Resources Guide.