Anti-slip Treatment for Bathroom Tiles under Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) Programme

Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong asked the Minister for National Development with regard to the anti-slip treatment for bathroom tiles subsidised under HDB's Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme (a) how many households have benefitted from the treatment to date; (b) what is the total cost to the Government for subsidising the treatment; (c) what is the average life span of the treatment before a new treatment is required; and (d) how has HDB responded to complaints about the treatment, if any.

Mr Lawrence Wong: The Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme aims to make homes safer for the elderly. Eligible residents can select from three improvement items, comprising ramps to overcome single-step entrances, grab bars, and slip-resistant treatment to floor tiles for up to two toilets.

Specifically for the slip-resistant treatment to floor tiles of toilets, about 70,000 households have benefitted since the launch of EASE in July 2012. The Government has spent more than $10 million subsidising slip-resistant treatment to floor tiles.

Such treated floor tiles can typically last up to five years. However, the life span will also depend on the usage and frequency of cleaning. For example, the accumulation of excessive dirt or soap residue might reduce the effectiveness of the slip-resistant treatment.

HDB will investigate the feedback and complaints received on slip-resistant treatment of tiles. In cases where the slip-resistance has deteriorated due to accumulation of dirt or soap residue, residents will be advised on the appropriate methods of cleaning the tiles to upkeep the slip-resistant treatment. If the slip-resistance has pre-maturely deteriorated within the 1-year Defects Liability Period despite proper cleaning, HDB will request its contractors to rectify the situation.