However, slips and trips aren’t solely caused by contaminants, the condition of a surface is also an equally important factor. On internal or external steps, team members can lose their footing because the edge of the step has become worn down by heavy traffic over time.
So, having identified some of the areas in need of solutions, what should FMs be using?
Selecting the right GRP solution Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) is a highly effective safety material because it features a textured surface that enhances grip, even in wet conditions. Its lightweight but durable nature makes it suitable for lots of different surfaces while being able to withstand high levels of foot fall.
Watco’s GRP products also meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and the 2004 Building Regulations, helping businesses to stay compliant with policy requirements. The material’s anti slip properties provide instant safety underfoot, and its weather resistance properties prevent warping or splitting in extreme temperatures giving year-round protection. GRP solutions can be easily installed, and Watco offers a free cut-to-size service to reduce waste and ensure the best cost.
So, which solution is suitable for each surface?
Steps Steps are one of the biggest areas of focus for slip and trip hazards. To protect and maintain steps, Watco’s GRP Step Covers are a versatile and long-lasting solution. As an alternative to covering the whole step, Watco’s Firm-Step GRP Edges can offer heavy duty nosing protection with a quick and simple application. These edges also help to highlight step edges in bright colours, such as yellow or white, for increased visibility.
Ladders Ladders pose an added safety risk, as falls from height often result in serious injury. GRP Ladder Rungs can be
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fixed firmly with adhesive to provide grip for hands and feet, even if the surface is wet or oily.
Ramps Indoor and outdoor ramps can also be prone to slips and trips, particularly during periods of icy and wet weather, but also when contaminants have been spilled on the surface. Watco’s Firm-Step Heavy Duty GRP Sheets can be trimmed to size using the service provided by Watco. The sheets can then be easily applied by a member of the FM team, offering a hard-wearing surface for continuous slip resistance that will not rot or corrode in severe weather or heavy traffic.
Walkways, platforms and mezzanines Throughout a facility the raised walkways, platforms and mezzanines can all become weathered over time, which makes them increasingly slippery. For example, chequered plates may eventually wear down to a smooth surface, reducing traction. Watco’s Firm-Step GRP Grating and Duckboard offer maintenance free ultra slip resistant floor coverings that can withstand heavy traffic. They are also chemical resistant, making them ideal for industrial environments.
Choosing the right grade GRP is available in different texture grades. A fine to medium grade offers a smoother surface, ideal for areas needing a refined, aesthetic finish, such as indoor steps or ramps. Whereas a coarse grade has thicker fibres for superior durability in high-traffic or industrial environments.
By combining proactive and reactive strategies, FMs can implement GRP solutions tailored to each surface, significantly reducing the risk of slips, trips and falls.
Check out Watco’s guide to GRP for more information on the surfaces and solutions discussed.
www.watco.co.uk TOMORROW’S FM | 39
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