• Docks may become slippery due to bird droppings, suntan oil, mud, weathering and water.sea gull image by jjsb88 from Fotolia.com
  
  Wooden floating docks can become slippery over time from standing water on their surfaces and by natural weathering, which may create a slick walking surface. Non-slip solutions are available to ensure the safety of those who use the dock.
  
  

Non-Slip Coatings

• Apply non-slip coatings with a stippled brush to ensure even coverage with its large particles.roller stripe image by Nicemonkey from Fotolia.com
  
  Apply a non-slip membrane coating to your decking. These protective polyurethane coatings contain recycled rubber granules that create a roughly textured finish. They are available in more than 15 colors, bond well with wood and resist cracking, flaking and peeling. Silica sand paint is another form of non-slip coating.
  
  

Tapes

• Apply adhesive non-slip tape to dock steps and swim ladders.Steel ladder for descent to the sea image by Cosmic from Fotolia.com
  
  Non-slip 60-grit self-adhesive tape is easy and quick to apply. These tapes are made with aluminum oxide and are available in many colors -- as well as clear -- and in a variety of widths and lengths. They are also used in applications such as playgrounds and machine shops.
  
  

Matting

• Many non-slip matting styles offer hidden drainage.texture image by samantha grandy from Fotolia.com
  
  Slip-resistant, synthetic rubber matting is composed of organic compounds such as nitrile. Surface treatments are available in coin shapes, lines that run the length of the mat, other geometric figures and open-weave patterns that provide drainage for standing water. You can purchase non-slip matting in thicknesses of 1/8 to 3/8 inches and in lengths of 50 feet and more.
  
  

Carpeting

• Artificial turf can help make your dock slip resistant.feet and carpet image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
  
  Marine-grade carpeting is designed to resist fading and degradation in the elements. It is ideal for covering slippery areas such the gangplank that connects your wooden floating dock to the shore and the area surrounding your swim ladder where bathers exit the water and need good traction. Marine-grade carpet is available in a variety of colors and grades, and in materials such as polypropylene and olefin. Light-colored carpet provides a cooler walking surface than dark-colored carpet because it absorbs less light and heat.
  
  

Maintenance

• Cleaning heads are available for water hoses to boost water flow and pressure.washing the rocks image by Joann Cooper from Fotolia.com
  
  Keeping your wooden floating dock clean prevents slickness from accumulated mud, bird droppings and oily spills. Keep your deck free of clutter that can create a tripping hazard. If your dock becomes covered in mildew or other organic material, a careful power washing will return the surface to its original non-slip state.