Simple steps to safety
October 1st 2006

The subject of flooring, more specifically safety flooring or matting, is not always considered to be most exciting topic of discussion. Many of us probably don't pay that much attention to the type of floor we stand on. However, that floor surface can influence our long-term health and well-being, as Rachel Lambert of Coba Plastics, explains

Given the alarming number of slips, trips and falls in the workplace, the issue of safety underfoot should never be underestimated. With so many products available in the marketplace ranging from safety matting and flooring to specially designed footwear, the solution to reducing accidents is really quite simple. It is common sense for the workplace to adopt a culture of prevention rather than cure.

So why is it that over a third of all major injuries reported each year are caused as a result of a slip or a trip according to HSE statistics? But slipping is not the only factor. If we take this a step further (no pun intended!) and discuss fatigue-related ailments linked to prolonged standing, then the issue of 'standing in safety' becomes even more important.

A TUC-backed report reveals that up to 11 million UK workers could face serious health conditions including varicose veins, heart disease and problems with circulation as a consequence of spending much of their working day on their feet. The charity BackCare estimates the overall cost of back pain to the NHS, business and the economy as being £5billion per year.

Many industrial environments require employees to stand whether this is on a production line, packing station or assembly area. So called 'short-lived' aches and pains should not be ignored if experienced on a regular basis.

They can sometimes lead to distressing musculoskeletal disorders, injury and chronic pain. Back pain, swelling of the joints and irreversible conditions such as varicose veins are common. Some mats now have raised surfaces that make contact with 'pressure points' in the feet to promote healthy foot movement.

Look out for products that are specifically designed to reduce fatigue. Anti-fatigue matting encourages regular foot movement, stimulating circulation as feet naturally adapt to the cushioned surface of the mat.

Taking these factors into consideration, it is an employer's responsibility to ensure that appropriate measures have been taken to create a safe and comfortable standing surface for workers. Investment in a slip-resistant or anti-fatigue mat for a workstation, for example, is such a small outlay to help prevent such accidents.

Improved safety makes workers feel valued and if they stand on their feet for much of the day, then anti-fatigue matting will significantly improve comfort too. It doesn't take an expert to realise that even this, the simplest of preventative measures, can help to reduce absenteeism and increase productivity. That said, the importance of selecting the right matting or floor surface is crucial for maximum benefits to be derived. Believe it or not, one mat is not just like another. Many have been designed for a specific purpose and with hundreds of options available to end-users the selection process can be confusing at times.

Getting the right advice is essential and if in doubt, ask the manufacturer or supplier for guidance or even a site evaluation.

The following points are intended as a useful framework for selecting the right matting for the intended location.

What is the purpose of the matting? Is it to reduce slipping or relieve fatigue, or perhaps a combination of the two? What size is the floor area to be covered? Matting comes in rolls, loose lay mats, tiles or interlocking modules.

What shape? If it is an unusual shape rather than a long straight production line, then matting tiles could be considered.

Is the matting for a dry environment or a wet, oily location? If wet or oily, then an open holed mat is usually better. Look out for products that have been tested for slip-resistance.

How much wear and tear will the matting be subjected to? Matting ranges from products suitable for light industrial use up to heavy duty use.

Will the matting have workers who regularly turn in their job? Ask the supplier about the top surface of the mat to ensure the product can withstand this.

Will the matting be exposed to chemicals or high temperature working areas such as welding bays? Check with the supplier about the suitability of products and the best product materials for this.

Is wheeled access required? Bevelled or ramped edges are sometimes supplied as standard or as optional extras and can be defined by a highly visible colour.

When the answers to these questions have been established, the choice can be narrowed down and selecting a suitable product becomes much easier.

So, next time you look at your feet, don't take them for granted. Remember, flooring certainly isn't boring!

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