The storm, anticipated to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even snow in certain areas, heightens the risk of accidents on wet and slippery surfaces.
David Chapman, founder of Ultimate Mats, a prominent commercial mat distributor, offers crucial advice on preventing slips, trips, and falls in the workplace amid an impending powerful storm sweeping across the US
According to David Chapman, wet floors are a primary cause of workplace accidents, often resulting from inclement weather or spilled substances like coffee and cleaning products. To counter this, David Chapman emphasizes the importance of equipping offices and workspaces with adequate safety measures. Simple measures such as using waterhog mats in entryways can help employees dry their feet, reducing the spread of water within the building.
David Chapman also highlights the dangers of dusty floors, which impede traction and increase the risk of slips and falls. Regular sweeping and mopping are essential to prevent dust buildup. Installing entrance mats can effectively capture contaminants, reducing dust by up to 78%. Poor lighting is identified as another significant factor contributing to accidents.
David Chapman advises prompt repairs of broken bulbs or insufficient lighting to mitigate injuries resulting from misjudgment of surroundings
Inadequate training is also a common cause of workplace accidents, highlighting the necessity of proper training mandated by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
David Chapman emphasizes the importance of well-maintained floors in preventing accidents. Investing in high-quality, durable mats is crucial to avoid hazards posed by curled or worn mats. Removing obstructions like cords and ensuring clear walkways are further steps to prevent falls. As the storm approaches, Chapman urges employers to take proactive measures to safeguard their workforce and prevent accidents.