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How It Works

A clear, structured pathway to assurance

The AFSSA process is transparent, repeatable and evidence-led — giving organisations and their stakeholders genuine confidence in their flooring safety management.

STEP 01

Enquiry

Share your site details, scope and timing requirements. We confirm assessor availability and provide a clear, fixed-fee proposal — typically within two working days.

  • Confirm sites, scale and access requirements
  • Agree timescales, dates and reporting format
  • Fixed-fee, no-obligation proposal
1–3 working days
STEP 02

Assessment

An independent, competent AFSSA assessor attends site to deliver a structured, condition-led evaluation across the four assessment categories — minimising operational disruption.

  • Independent on-site evaluation
  • Photographic evidence captured throughout
  • Engagement with site team where appropriate
Typically a single day per site
STEP 03

Report

You receive a detailed, evidence-based assessment report containing photographic findings, risk ratings and prioritised, practical recommendations across each category.

  • Executive summary for senior stakeholders
  • Detailed findings with photographic evidence
  • Prioritised, repair-first recommendations
Typically within 10 working days
STEP 04

Certification

On successfully meeting the AFSSA standard, the site is issued the AFSSA Annual Certificate of Floor Safety Assurance — supported by your full reporting suite and Concern & Repair Log.

  • Annual Certificate of Floor Safety Assurance
  • Concern & Repair Log issued and explained
  • 12-month reassessment cycle agreed
Certificate valid for 12 months
Assessment Framework

The Four Assessment Categories

Every AFSSA assessment evaluates flooring against four structured risk categories — covering the issues that most often impact safety, claims and operational continuity.

Slip Risk

Conditions that may increase the likelihood of slipping — including surface contamination, polish build-up, wear and unsuitable transitions.

Trip Hazards & Edge Integrity

Lifted edges, damaged thresholds, sudden level changes, worn nosings and other features that create avoidable trip risk.

Hygiene & Contamination Risk

Surface and structural conditions that may impact cleanability, infection control or chemical and biological contamination management.

Floor Integrity & Condition

Long-term performance issues affecting durability, structural performance, sub-floor stability and overall fitness for purpose.

How AFSSA Reviews Are Carried Out

Independent, experienced reviewers following the AFSSA methodology

AFSSA reviews are carried out by AFSSA-approved reviewers with relevant flooring industry experience and practical knowledge of floor safety, flooring defects, deterioration, hygiene risks and condition management.

During the pilot phase, AFSSA reviews are carried out by experienced flooring professionals trained in the AFSSA methodology and reporting process.

Where reviews take place in education, healthcare, housing or other sensitive environments, appropriate DBS checks will be required where applicable.

As AFSSA develops, reviewer requirements will continue to strengthen. The long-term objective is for AFSSA-approved reviewers to hold recognised health and safety, facilities management or related professional qualifications, such as IOSH Managing Safely, NEBOSH or equivalent.

AFSSA approval confirms suitability to carry out AFSSA reviews using the AFSSA methodology. It does not represent statutory accreditation, professional registration or regulatory approval.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Who carries out AFSSA reviews?

AFSSA reviews are carried out by AFSSA-approved reviewers with relevant flooring industry experience and practical knowledge of floor safety, defects and condition management. During the pilot phase, reviewers are approved based on experience, suitability and understanding of the AFSSA methodology. DBS checks are required where applicable.

AFSSA approval confirms suitability to carry out AFSSA reviews using the AFSSA methodology. It does not represent statutory accreditation, professional registration or regulatory approval.

Single-site assessments

Targeted assessment for individual properties — ideal for schools, care settings, restaurants and standalone commercial buildings.

Multi-site programmes

Consistent assessment methodology across estates — supporting national reporting, comparability and central programme management.

Annual reassessment

An annual cycle of reassessment supports continuous improvement and provides ongoing evidence of structured risk management.

Ready to start your AFSSA assessment?

Speak to our team about single-site assessments, multi-site estate programmes or pilot opportunities.