ENTRANCES & FRONT OF HOUSE
ENHANCING SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY
Tim Hayes, Specification & Marketing Manager at Quantum Flooring Accessories, explains the key considerations for selecting the correct entrance matting.
According to the HSE, every five minutes there is a slip or fall in the UK. This leads to 300,000 hospital visits each year. The vast majority (90%) of these slip accidents occur on wet floors, and the average cost of a claim for a slip or trip is £14,000. This is why entrance matting is a vital component of public safety.
Effective matting systems can greatly reduce the likelihood of people being injured through slips and falls. Removing the dirt and moisture from shoes and wheels as people enter a building is the most efficient way of preventing these kinds of injuries. It also has the added benefit of protecting floorcoverings from unnecessary wear and tear.
Choosing the correct entrance matting system is a critical decision that architects, facilities managers, and contractors must make. In this technical article, we will explore the key considerations that should guide the selection process, emphasising how the right choice can significantly enhance safety, protect floorcoverings, and improve overall efficiency.
FOOT TRAFFIC Understanding the anticipated foot traffic volume is the first step in selecting an appropriate entrance matting system. Different environments experience varying levels of foot traffic, ranging from heavy footfall in places such as transportation hubs to lighter traffic in office buildings. By conducting a review, it is possible to identify the optimal type and amount of matting required to effectively manage soil and moisture for a specific location.
WEATHER CONDITIONS The geographical location and prevailing weather conditions also play a crucial role in determining the type and amount of entrance matting required. For example, areas prone to heavy rainfall may require a more robust matting solution to handle excess moisture and muddy foot traffic.
PLACEMENT AND LAYOUT Proper placement and layout of entrance matting is essential to its effectiveness. Matting should always be configured so that the textile, rubber, or metal scrapers go against the grain of traffic, maximising the removal of detritus. Consideration should be given to the size of the matwell, ensuring it covers the entire entrance area to capture soil and moisture effectively. In addition, incorporating multiple zones of matting can optimise dirt removal and moisture retention.
MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION Choosing the right material for entrance matting is critical for achieving optimal performance. Common materials include rubber, nylon, and aluminium. Each material offers unique benefits, such as durability, moisture resistance, and ease of
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maintenance. Considering whether to select open or closed construction, and choosing a greater height for the matting can further enhance the effectiveness in trapping debris and moisture.
SLIP RESISTANCE One of the primary objectives of entrance matting is to enhance safety by preventing slips and falls. Ensuring that the selected matting meets relevant slip resistance standards, such as those outlined in the British Standard BS 8300-2:2018 and by the UK Slip Resistance Group (UKSRG), is crucial. Mats should also be compliant with accessibility guidance referenced in the Equality Act and Part M of Building Regulations.
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