JVP 4×4 panels’ galvanised sheet metal receives no subsequent treatment. However, it can be used with no additional covering provided its use is rigorously assessed in light of the considerations below.
The galvanised sheet’s abrasion resistance is known: since the exposed surface is substantially composed of zinc, it has a Mohs hardness of between 2.5 and 3, and the underlying steel has a Mohs hardness of between 4.5 and 5.
It follows that, since the materials normally constituting road and earth dust are crystalline, with a Mohs hardness of 6 or more, the risks of scraping and scratching the bare sheet by walking are considerable.
When considering using unfinished JVP 4×4 panels, it is important to consider the specific non-slip features of galvanised sheet.
JVP has had third-party laboratories perform slip-resistance testing in accordance with the most common international standards, such as ENV 12633:1-2003, BS 7976-2: 2002 and BCRA Tortus method, which are available on request.
In general, Italian regulations accept Tortus results, so galvanised sheet metal is perfectly appropriate for dry and wet rubber soles and critical for dry leather soles. However, the test results must be assessed by occupational safety engineers, under their sole responsibility.