When do you need a new mat?

Floor mats are typically very sturdy, but they do get a lot of use, and inevitably suffer from wear and tear over time. So you need to monitor them and replace them when they look like they are becoming ineffective. Indeed, a worn-out mat could become a safety risk for your staff and customers.

Here are some signs that you mat needs replacing:

• It’s beginning to slip and slide. Once the mat backing becomes worn, it starts to lose its non-slip traction and could start sliding and moving when people walk over it. Because you cannot see the wear on the underside of the mat, you need to keep an eye out for moving mats on your floors.
• The edging is chipped. Examine the sides of the mat and see if the edging is beginning to chip or fray. In extreme cases, the edging might even begin to separate from the mat, causing a serious trip hazard. If the edging feels any way loose, it’s time to replace the mat.
• The surface looks shabby. This is the most obvious sign that the mat needs to be replaced. A faded, shabby or dirty mat creates a bad impression on customers. Clean the mats regularly, and replace them when they can no longer create a positive impression in your building.

Sometimes you should also consider replacing mats because of the time of year. For example, if you expect a busy period, such as around Christmas or summer, check your mats to make sure that they’ll be able to withstand the extra traffic. Risks of falls and slips increase when there is a high volume of customers walking around your premises.

Also be alert to changes in the weather. Outdoor mats have to endure the brunt of harsh weather, but indoor mats are also likely to be under more strain during wet or stormy weather. Mats that are ideal for a warm dusty summer’s day may not be suitable during a snow fall, for example. Be particularly carefully during wet or icy weather, when outdoor surfaces are more likely to be slippery.

Your floor mats can enhance the appearance of your premises and provide an effective advertising platform for your brand. However, they also protect your staff and customers from trips and falls. And they reduce the risk of costly slip-related expenses for your business.

How to find a right floor mat for your business

Choosing the correct floor mat for your business requirements is essential in helping to protect and prolong the life of your flooring whilst helping to prevent the risks of slips and falls occurring within areas of the workplace.

There are a number of floor mat options that can be placed in an array of locations meaning cleaner and less hazardous floors.

Initial has a wide variety of commercial entrance mats to meet your every need. Contact us today for a free quote!