FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
Jamie Woodhall, UK Technical & Innovations Manager at Initial Washroom Hygiene with advice on choosing the right floor mats for your business
February often brings wet and stormy weather, meaning facilities managers may feel that keeping the floors clean is like fighting a losing battle.
The condition of your floors says more about your business than many people might think. To customers, they’re an indicator of cleanliness, safety standards, and attention to detail. Floors are one of the first things you notice when walking into a property, so good maintenance (including choosing the right floor mats) is essential for maintaining a positive business reputation.
Mats serve a variety of purposes. They can reduce costs, enhance brand image, keep floors cleaner for longer, and can even protect businesses and customers from potential accidents. This means there are many factors to consider when choosing the most appropriate floor mats and products, which can make it challenging to know where to start. Understanding the purpose you want your new mat to serve is essential in making it a worthwhile investment.
WHY FLOOR MATS MATTER
Well-designed floor mats reduce the amount of dirt and water tracked into a building by visitors, particularly during periods of wet weather. By placing mats in areas of high foot traffic, facilities managers can collect excess dirt and protect the floor beneath.
Mats that use a high proportion of microfibres (small strands that attach themselves to microscopic dirt particles) are most effective for optimum floor protection. Some floor mats can absorb several litres of water and multiple kilograms of dirt that would otherwise be tracked around the building.
Used correctly, floor mats therefore reduce the amount of money spent on cleaning costs and floor maintenance bills for the wider building. They can be regularly serviced and returned clean, and the protection they offer reduces the long-term costs associated with replacing worn flooring.
They can also play an important role in keeping buildings safe for visitors. Particularly during wet weather. It is important to remember that it is a business’ responsibility to prevent slips and falls on their premises. Proper precautions, including using appropriate floor mats, demonstrate that businesses care about the safety of their visitors, and reduce the likelihood of any potential compensation claims.
MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE
Choosing the right floor mats for your premises depends on their intended purpose and location, as well as what industry you’re operating in.
While hospitality and retail businesses will benefit from entrance mats that reduce the spread of dirt and improve the appearance of the foyer, manufacturing businesses may require durable industrial mats capable of absorbing heavy spills.
For some hospitality jobs, mats can also enhance wellbeing. Anti-fatigue mats can be a great way to support staff who spend long periods standing in one spot, as they help to relieve pressure and aches, while preventing the risks associated with slips and falls.
For premises such as pubs and bars, or in leisure centres and gyms where spillages occur frequently, non-textile mats are recommended. These reduce movement on wet, hard surfaces and minimise the risk of slips and trips, and therefore the likelihood of injury to employees or customers.
Consider placing logo mats outside your premises or in entrance areas where they can add a splash of colour, while demonstrating an enhanced level of consideration and care to your visitors. For example, Initial’s Outdoor Logo Scraper Plus Mat not only collects dirt and water as people enter the building but can be customised with a business’ logo to communicate brand messaging to anyone who enters the building.
FLOOR CARE BEST PRACTICE
Facilities managers must enforce floorcare best practice, not only to enhance their premises aesthetically, but to protect visitors, customers and colleagues.
Choosing the mat for your unique professional environment is essential. If you’re unsure which floor mats could benefit your business the most, don’t be afraid to consult the experts. They will carefully consider your unique business needs, as well as any facilities challenges you experience, to choose the most effective floor care solution.
