In any business or facility, maintaining a safe environment for employees, customers, and visitors is essential. Commercial floor matting is needed to help prevent the 87% of slip-and-fall incidents that occur on moderate-to-low traction walkways. Many of these accidents are preventable with proper floor safety measures. Floor mats are not just decorative—they serve a critical function in reducing hazards and ensuring the safety of everyone who enters your building.
Greeno Supply knows every business has unique needs, and choosing the right floor matting can significantly reduce the risks associated with wet, slippery, or uneven floors. That is why we want to share the typical hazards that lead to accidents, how to properly select and install floor matting, and the importance of regular maintenance to keep your facility safe.
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Typical Hazards that Lead to Accidents
Preventing accidents and maintaining a safe environment for your team and visitors is important. Matting solutions are specifically designed to mitigate common floor hazards, providing an extra layer of protection for your employees and visitors. The most common floor hazards needing commercial matting solutions are:
- Winter Weather: Snow and Ice
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces (Spills of Water, Oils, Grease, or Other Liquids)
- Rainwater Tracked in from Outside
- Wet Floors Due to Cleaning Processes
- Icy or Wet Entranceways
Proper Selection, Installation, and Maintenance are Crucial
Now that the common hazards have been identified, proper selection, installation, and maintenance are essential to reap the full benefits of commercial floor matting. Let’s explore why each of these elements is crucial.
What to Consider When Selecting Floor Mats
Choosing the right floor mats for your business is the first step in ensuring safety. When selecting mats, consider the following factors:
- Material: Different materials offer different benefits. Different environments require specific mat materials. For example, natural rubber works well in dry areas, while chemical-resistant mats are necessary for areas exposed to oils or chemicals.
- Durability: Choose mats that are durable enough for high-traffic areas. Heavy-duty mats are designed to withstand constant use, while lighter mats are ideal for areas with less foot traffic.
- Size and Coverage: Ensure the mat covers the entire area where hazards are likely to occur. Studies indicate that at least 6 feet of matting is needed to effectively remove contaminants from shoe bottoms.
- Traction: Anti-slip mats are crucial for areas prone to spills, wet conditions, or icy weather. Mats with a textured surface help improve grip and reduce the likelihood of slips.
Installation: Get It Right from the Start
Proper installation of floor mats ensures that they function optimally. Mats should be installed to avoid creating tripping hazards, with a beveled or graduated edge to aid in the smooth transition from floor to mat. Mat size is also a consideration, with the standard recommendation being a single larger mat rather than multiple smaller mats to reduce gaps and overlaps that could lead to tripping.
Regular Maintenance Keeps Mats Clean and Effective
To maintain the safety of your business or facility, floor mats must be regularly cleaned and maintained. Dirty or worn-out mats lose their effectiveness in trapping moisture and dirt. Regular maintenance includes:
- Cleaning Mats Regularly: Mats should be cleaned frequently to remove dirt, moisture, and debris. For mats in high-traffic areas, you may need to clean them multiple times a day. Use the appropriate cleaning methods based on the material of the mat.
- Inspect Mats for Wear and Tear: Over time, mats can degrade. Regularly check for signs of wear, such as fraying edges or cracks, which can reduce their effectiveness. Replace mats as needed to ensure consistent safety.
- Check for Traps and Holes: Mats with drainage holes, make sure they remain clear of debris to allow for proper drainage.
Reduce the Risk of Poor Floor Safety Accidents with Greeno’s Mats
By implementing the right floor matting system, facilities can significantly reduce the risk of slip and fall incidents, creating a safer work environment and potentially saving substantial costs related to injuries and lost productivity. Greeno Supply can help you choose the right matting for your facility.
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