The decking was installed by Showcase Projects, which is based in Auchinleck near Prestwick. It is located outside the classrooms, and being on the West Coast of Scotland, is exposed to higher than average rainfall from the Atlantic storms.
This was a concern to Inverclyde Council as rain and closeness to water are the main causes of slips and trips, and standard timber decking can often become slippery.
An important consideration for the council was therefore to ensure that the decking minimised the risk of slips, trips and falls, which would create a safe surface for the pupils. It was therefore decided to specify John Brash's antislip decking.
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The designers of this Building Schools for the Future (BSF) project incorporated the decking in two ground floor locations, with one being used as a play area. JB Antislip Plus uses a formula of resin based aggregate inserts injected into the boards, which has been specifically developed to provide a durable and slip resistant surface.
Peter Wark, Director of Showcase Projects, said: "We were delighted to be involved in such a high profile project and have been very impressed with John Brash's decking as well as its service."
JB Antislip Plus has been independently tested by the Health & Safety Laboratory (HSL) using a Stanley Pendulum Test. During these tests, it significantly exceeded the minimum requirement for 'low potential for slip'. With two inserts, the decking achieved a score of 63, even when wet, which is over double the minimum requirement of 27.
Each deck board fitted at Newark Primary school has two buff-coloured inserts. The inserts can also be supplied in a variety of alternative colour options, making decking not only more eye-catching, but also drawing attention to stairs, changes in gradient and the edges of boards.
Christian Brash, Managing Director of John Brash, explained: "Decking is being increasingly used for a variety of applications covering the domestic, commercial and public sectors. For this project, it provided a much safer environment for the pupils as well as adding a stunning look to the school."
The School has been short listed in the Public Building category of the 2009 Scottish Design Awards, and is the only primary school to be nominated in this year's awards.
(GK/JM)
