Over a third of all major injuries reported each year are caused as a result of a slip or trip (the single most common cause of injury at work). Indeed, in 2008/09, it is estimated that these type of accidents cost the UK economy approximately £800 million, through personal injury cases and time away from work. But more often than not, these incidents are preventable. This article will outline some of the seemingly obvious applications of anti slip flooring, and the reasons why it should be employed in these areas.

Stairways

Falling down the stairs is a painful experience, very often resulting in injuries and occasionally fatalities. This is especially true with older people. If a company has not installed anti slip stair covers and/or stair nosing, then they may find themselves liable for a hefty personal injury payout, delivered by the courts. This is why it’s important for businesses to ensure that all their stairways are safe for staff and customers to use.

Wet Areas

The transition from the dry comforts of an office to a wet outdoor area can often cause a slip or fall, especially if the person in question is wearing flat soled office shoes. If a building has outdoors stairs, then some form of slip protection is doubly in order. If outdoor stairs are exposed to the elements, then this is a definite slip hazard. Appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the risk of harm to customers or employees.

Building entrances are another area which make the transition from indoors to outdoors. And often, these incidents are recorded on CCTV which can easily be used as evidence in court. Fibreglass grating can be ideal for building entrances or walkway, and can easily be in keeping with the aesthetic appeal of any specific area.

Wet floors are a common cause of accidents and canteens are often areas which suffer a high number of slips and falls. Drink spillages can cause a camouflaged slip hazard which anyone is susceptible. And surprisingly, a lot of shower rooms in gyms and community centres are considerably under protected. This represents possibly the biggest slip hazard, and should be protected, either with specialised non slip flooring or coating.

Whatever industry sector a business is in, or whatever customer base they serve, some form of safety flooring is in order, even if only for the business owners peace of mind. But at the end of the day a company bears the responsibility to protect its staff and customers from any unnecessary risks that may present them during the working day. And a few pounds spent on safety now could save a fortune in potential future personal injury claims, or simply through

Written by Gary Wastell at Sui Generis, a leading GRP company with a reputation for technical excellence founded on decades of industrial experience. Currently, located in North Essex, Sui Generis specialises in fibreglass mouldings, anti slip flooring, bund lining and spill control and containment. Please visit Sui Generis