Top Improper Uses & Hazards of Commercial Mats
Commercial mats can safeguard facilities from slip and fall accidents if they are used properly. Many business owners use mats improperly, which causes safety hazards. When mats are used appropriately, they can be a business’s best safety asset. We outline the top improper uses and hazards of commercial mats, while also offering solutions.
Mat Improper Uses & Hazards
Placing Two Mats On Top Of Each Other
To cover more flooring or to make surfaces more supportive, some business owners may overlap two or more commercial mats. This is a hazard that increases the chance that a trip accident may occur. The elevated mat edges create an immediate hazard and business owners should avoid this practice to promote walkway safety.
Solution: Mats should be placed flat on the floor and two or more mats should not be placed on top of one another. This tactic can reduce the chance of trip accidents.
Putting Mats on Top of Cracked or Uneven Flooring Surfaces
Damaged flooring surfaces can create a hazard for your commercial mat. If you place a commercial mat on cracked flooring, the backing will not sit flat on the floor. The rule of thumb is that if the condition of the flooring would cause a hazard without the use of a commercial mat, you should not place a mat on top of the surface to hide the issue.
Solution: Place your commercial mats on flooring that is in good condition. On flat flooring, mats can grip to the floor, reducing the amount of movement, furthermore, preventing slips and trips from taking place.
Using Non-High Traction Backings in High-Traffic Areas
In high foot traffic areas, such as entryways and lobbies, commercial mats need to be extra durable. People who use non-high traffic backings in these areas are using commercial mats incorrectly.
Solution: Use high-traction backings with 90 mil rubber in high-traffic areas to avoid movement on flooring surfaces. By using this category of backings, you may see a decline in walkway injuries.
Mats Are Not Used for The Right Application
For example, if you purchase an anti-fatigue mat, you should use it in intended areas such as reception areas, healthcare facilities, and more to reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
Solution: Use mats for their designed application and place in the proper area. This will allow the mat to effectively do its job: safeguard your facility from slips and falls.
Placing Mats On Dirty or Wet Floors
Placing mats on dirty or wet floors causes a major hazard. The rubber backing will not grip to the floor effectively, which will increase the likelihood that an accident will occur. It is necessary to reduce the amount of movement in order to safeguard your facility.
Solution: Only place mats on clean flooring surfaces that are dry. Clean and thoroughly dry the flooring before placing a commercial mat.
Aspects of Effective Mats to Avoid Hazards
- Longer/Larger Mats: more material means more weight, which leads to less movement
- 90 mil Rubber Backings: the heavier material causes the mat to grip to the ground, reducing movement
- Curved Edges: helps reduce trip accidents & grips to the flooring surface
- Size: apply the right size mat to the area you’re fitting
- Cleanliness: mats are laundered on a regular basis
Do you own a small business? If so, read our blog on The Importance of Walkway Safety Solutions for Small Businesses to learn how mat safety can help reduce the chance of accidents in your facility.
