SURFACE PREPARATION
DON’T COMPROMISE SAFETY FOR DESIGN
Karl Ward of Surefoot Systems UK Ltd stresses that design does not have to compromise safety when it comes to flooring options.
Due to advances in technology, design and more accessible pricing, hard surface flooring such as Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles and Natural Granite have become increasingly popular for both commercial and residential floors.
In many cases the choice of flooring is driven by appearance and branding or to match existing décor within the budget allocated. But, in my opinion what should also be a serious consideration when making the buying decision is the floor’s safety and ultimately how dangerous it is when the floor becomes wet.
Surefoot Systems UK LTD has treated thousands of meters of flooring in the commercial environment with its Antislip product for slippery tiled surfaces – including leisure centres, car show rooms, shopping malls, schools and hotels - where a slip or trip could
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result in a broken bone and subsequent large claims.
With the current compensation culture there has been a growing demand from customers for an Antislip DIY kit to treat smaller areas. Surefoot have therefore launched a brand new DIY Retail Kit specifically aimed at the end user for the treatment of smaller commercial floors and even for consumers who wish to protect themselves from slips on domestic tiled floors.
The beauty of the Antislip DIY Retail Kit is that the solution is invisible and unlike other products of this nature on the market is not an acid etch product, so does not damage the tile once it’s been applied – the only way you’ll notice a difference is once you’ve stepped on it.
From a commercial perspective increasing
legislation in terms of health and safety and increased litigation and claims will increase the pressure for organisations to improve their safety record. Yes, laws are in place now to reduce slip accident, but my worry is that far too often some organisations will wait until a slip has occurred before taking action. (It is like being told a coffee is too hot to drink after you’ve taken a sip – it’s too late. You’ve already hurt yourself!)
In my opinion, there needs to be a more proactive approach to the Risk Management of slip accidents. I applaud the work of Councils such as Sheffield Council, who are actively taking a stand against slippery floors in public venues. E.H.O Departments take slippery floors very seriously and have the power to postpone the opening of a venue if they deem the floor to be
a health risk to the public, until the floor can be treated to make it safer.
So to summarise, you don’t have to compromise design with safety – you just have to ensure your design includes safety.
The Antislip DIY Retail Kit is easy to apply, is instantly effective and will work on any of the following surfaces; tiles including polished and natural Porcelain, Ceramic and Quarry, Terrazzo and Granite. Each kit will treat up to 10m² and will last a minimum of three years. Surefoot Systems UK Ltd also has a range of products to tackle other slippery surfaces including Concrete, Stone, Metal, Tarmac and Asphalt, Terrazzo, Vinyl, Wood, and Wooden Decking.
www.surefootsystems.co.uk
www.tomorrowsflooring.com
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