Stepping up safety

Safety flooring is usually fitted for very good reason – to ensure the safety of those using that building. It’s also often fitted in areas where hygiene really matters too – such as healthcare or catering environments. At Altro, we’re probably best known for safety – we invented safety flooring back in 1947 and have continued to innovate ever since. However, we also care a lot about hygiene, and in particular about creating safe and hygienic environments that are sustainable and easy to clean and maintain, which is why we want to spread the word about how incorrect cleaning can directly affect slip resistance.

Safety first

Safety flooring that meets minimum Health & Safety Executive (HSE) slip resistance standards has odds of anyone slipping of one in a million. Many factors – from the obvious spillages and contaminants, to gradual degradation and wear of flooring that’s not manufactured to high standards – can increase the risk in some flooring to as much as a one in two chance of slipping.  Slips and falls can be a costly business – for those who may be injured after slipping on a floor they thought would keep them safe, and for those whose job it was to mitigate the risk of slips where possible.   

Whilst you may not be able to influence many of these factors, you can make a real difference to safety by following the right cleaning regimes. No special techniques are required when cleaning safety flooring – it is simply a matter of following basic procedures on a regular basis. However, an incorrect cleaning regime can lead to build up of dirt and/or chemicals on the surface of the flooring. This build-up not only compromises hygiene, but can act as a barrier to effective slip resistance, resulting in potential slips and injuries.

Know your flooring

It’s very important to read, keep and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations for each product – different flooring may need different techniques to get the best results. For example, heavy-duty safety flooring suitable for kitchen areas is designed to cope with oils, fats and grease and may need a different cleaning regime to flooring designed specifically for use in bathroom areas. 

Cleaning best practice

Altro products are designed for ease of cleaning and hygiene, with an impermeable surface and no grouted joints that could trap bacteria. However, as with any surface, regular cleaning is needed to maintain hygiene. Frequent removal of spills and dirt will help prevent the build-up of contamination on the surface. Regular cleaning will also remove any substances that could potentially damage flooring, helping it to perform at its best throughout its lifetime. 

Develop a regular cleaning programme suited to the usage and traffic of the area. Use an appropriate cleaner at the correct dilution and the recommended temperature, allowing sufficient time for the cleaning agent to work after application, using friction to loosen dirt and rinsing as directed. Always double check the suitability of cleaning agents for use on PVC floors; do not use cleaner containing pine oil. Remove scuff marks regularly. 

Maintenance matters

PVC flooring is innately resistant to impact damage and point loading, is watertight and resistant to most chemicals, staining and odours. These are key factors in maintaining hygiene, because damage to floors causes dirt and bacteria to become trapped more easily, and makes cleaning more difficult. If you do spot any damage or other maintenance issues, flag them up as soon as you can to ensure hygiene doesn’t become compromised.