From Anti-Slip to Cloth: The Role of Specialized Tapes in Industrial Settings

Introduction

In industrial environments, the smallest details can make the biggest difference  and that includes the tape you use. From reducing slip risks to keeping wires tidy, specialist industrial tapes are essential for safety, efficiency, and compliance.

Unlike household tape, industrial-grade options are engineered for demanding conditions. Whether you operate a warehouse, workshop, or manufacturing plant, there’s a purpose-built tape designed for the job. In the UK, where British manufacturing standards and HSE regulations set the bar high, the right tape can help prevent accidents and streamline operations.

This guide will walk you through the most common types of industrial tape  including anti-slip, cloth, PTFE, double-sided, and custom-printed solutions. You'll learn where and how to use them, what to look for when buying, and how to avoid costly mistakes. We’ll also point you to trusted UK industrial tapes suppliers that serve sectors from logistics to heavy engineering.

So if you're looking to boost safety or upgrade your site’s performance, understanding the role of specialised tapes is a smart investment.

Anti-Slip Tapes – The Frontline of Industrial Safety

Where Anti-Slip Tapes Matter Most

In industrial settings, slips and trips aren't just inconvenient, they're a major hazard. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), they’re among the top causes of workplace injuries in the UK. That’s why anti-slip tape is a key player in safety strategies.

From warehouse stairwells to loading bays and wet-floor zones, anti-slip tapes help reduce the risk of accidents by improving traction underfoot. They're widely used in construction, logistics, food production, and manufacturing  anywhere footing needs to be secure.

These tapes support British workplace safety standards, helping sites stay compliant while protecting staff. When properly installed, they also provide a clear visual cue, marking hazard areas before incidents happen.

Many UK anti-slip tape suppliers offer tapes suited to specific industrial challenges which brings us to the different types available.

Types of Anti-Slip Tapes

Industrial environments vary  and so do their safety needs. Here are the most common anti-slip tape types:

  • Grit-Based Tapes – Textured like sandpaper for maximum grip in high-traffic zones.
  • Non-Abrasive Tapes – Smooth yet slip-resistant, ideal for hygiene-sensitive areas like kitchens and cleanrooms.
  • Glow-in-the-Dark Tapes – Useful for marking emergency exits and low-light walkways.
  • Hazard-Striped Tapes – Combine traction with visual alerts for machinery zones and loading docks.
  • Marine-Grade & Waterproof Tapes – Designed for wet, outdoor, or coastal environments.

Tip: Clean and dry surfaces are essential before application. Use a primer or edge sealer to improve long-term adhesion on textured or outdoor surfaces.

Cloth & Friction Tapes – Industrial Versatility Unrolled

The Utility of Cloth Tapes in Workshops

Cloth tapes might look simple, but in industrial settings, they’re some of the most adaptable tools around. Made from woven fabric coated with pressure-sensitive adhesive, they strike a balance between strength, flexibility, and ease of handling.

These tapes are popular in electrical work, manufacturing, automotive repair, and general maintenance. Common uses include bundling cables, protecting surfaces, and temporarily securing components during assembly or transit. Their fabric backing provides durability without being rigid, a key advantage when working around curves or uneven surfaces.

One of the standout features is tearability. Unlike plastic-based tapes, cloth tape can be torn cleanly by hand with no scissors needed. This makes it a go-to solution in fast-paced environments like production floors and service bays where every second counts.retailers 

Many UK workshop supply offer cloth tapes under various names, such as:

  • Friction Tape – Originally designed for electrical insulation, it offers both grip and abrasion resistance.
  • Gaffer Tape – Widely used in staging and industrial sectors for its clean removal and strong hold, even on rough surfaces.

Comparing Cloth to PTFE & Fibreglass Tapes

While cloth tape is flexible and convenient, other industrial tapes like PTFE glass cloth or fibreglass tape serve more specialised roles.

  • PTFE Glass Cloth Tape – Resistant to heat, chemicals, and friction. Ideal for heat sealing, packaging lines, and non-stick conveyor belts.
  • Fibreglass Tape – Extremely strong, with excellent tensile resistance. Often used in electrical insulation or structural reinforcement.

Each has its place. Cloth tape is the jack-of-all-trades, while PTFE and fibreglass are built for more extreme conditions.

Quick tip: For heavy-duty jobs, check if the tape meets UK industrial compliance for temperature or flame resistance especially in electrical or high-heat areas.

Choosing the Right Tape for the Right Job

Adhesive Strength, Temperature Tolerance & Substrate Match

Not all tapes are created equal, especially in industrial settings. Choosing the wrong type can lead to peeling, slipping, or worse, safety risks. That’s why understanding the core performance factors is essential before buying.

Here are three critical areas to consider:

  1. Adhesive Strength – Heavy loads, vibrations, or constant pressure? You’ll need high-bond adhesive tapes that can take the strain.
  2. Temperature Tolerance – Industrial environments often deal with heat, cold, or fluctuating conditions. Select tapes rated for the temperature range they’ll face.
  3. Substrate Compatibility – Tapes adhere differently to metal, plastic, concrete, or painted walls. Some UK-based industrial tape distributors offer data sheets to help match tape to surface type.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Industrial Tape

Even experienced buyers can overlook small details that make a big difference. Watch out for these pitfalls:

  • Overlooking Surface Prep – A poorly cleaned surface can cause premature tape failure.
  • Underestimating Environmental Exposure – Moisture, oil, UV light, or heavy traffic can break down certain tapes.
  • Assuming One Tape Fits All – A tape that works on a warehouse floor may not perform on machinery or piping.

Pro tip: When in doubt, consult a UK industrial tape supplier to ensure you're choosing the right product for your environment.

Custom & Printed Tapes – Branding Meets Functionality

Printed Hazard & Branding Tapes for Compliance & Identity

In many industrial settings, tape isn't just about adhesion it’s also about communication. Custom-printed tapes serve dual purposes: enhancing safety visibility and reinforcing brand identity.

For compliance, printed hazard tapes mark restricted areas, walkways, or danger zones. Text like “Caution” or directional arrows help staff and visitors navigate safely. In sectors like logistics, colour-coded tapes support British health and safety standards by clearly separating zones.

Custom branding is also growing. Tapes with your company name, logo, or messaging add a professional finish to packaging, machinery, or workspaces.

Where to Source Custom Tape in the UK

Many UK-based tape suppliers now offer low-minimum orders for branded or printed tapes. Options range from polypropylene packaging tapes to heavy-duty vinyl or barrier tapes  all with customisation.

When sourcing, consider:

  • Material & Finish – Vinyl for durability, paper for eco-friendliness, polypropylene for cost-efficiency.
  • Print Clarity & Adhesive Strength – Ensure printing doesn't affect adhesion or legibility.
  • Lead Times – Custom tapes require design approval and production time. Plan ahead.

Industry tip: Look for suppliers who offer design previews or mock-ups before printing.

Conclusion

From improving safety to streamlining workflows, specialised industrial tapes are more than accessories; they're essential tools. Whether it’s anti-slip tape for stairwells, cloth tape for bundling, or custom-printed tape for branding, choosing the right product impacts performance, compliance, and cost-efficiency.

Match the tape to the job  considering environment, surface, adhesive strength, and UK safety standards. With so many options, it’s easy to overlook small differences that matter.

For trusted solutions built for British industries, visit mindustrialsafety.co.uk. Whether you need anti-slip, heat-resistant, or custom-printed tape, their range delivers on industrial-grade performance.