Non Slip Commercial Kitchen Flooring Solutions
Working in a commercial kitchen is not for the faint of heart. The fast-paced environment, the heat, and the constant movement can be overwhelming. However, the risks go beyond just exhaustion and stress. A lot of accidents can happen in a kitchen, but one of the most common is slipping and falling due to the wet and greasy surfaces. Slip-and-fall accidents can result in severe injuries, lost wages, and lawsuits. Therefore, kitchen owners must invest in their employees’ safety by installing non-slip flooring solutions.
- Understanding the risks – Almost all commercial kitchens generate a range of liquids including water, grease, oil, and food particles. These liquids can spill on the kitchen floor creating a slip hazard for the employees. Additionally, walking briskly or running in the kitchen can increase the chance of slipping. Therefore, it is crucial to install a non-slip solution to mitigate these risks.
- Types of Non-slip Flooring – There are several types of non-slip flooring solutions available in the market. Many manufacturers offer materials with a textured surface to increase traction or offer a grip or rubber backing to keep the layer in place and create a firmer grip between the surface and the rubber. It’s crucial to research the options available to make an informed decision.
- The installation process – Installing non-slip flooring solutions requires professionals with experience in commercial kitchen installations. The flooring installation process has to be planned properly to avoid downtime or work interruptions in the kitchen. It’s important to work with the professional team to conduct a site survey before the installation to determine the right material and installation method.
- Maintenance of non-slip flooring – After installations of non-slip floor, it’s important to maintain them to ensure they do not become a slip hazard themselves. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the surface clean and flushed of liquids that can compromise the grip of the material. Proper cleaning agents, techniques, and instruments should be used to avoid slipping dangers.
- Cost of non-slip flooring – The cost of non slip commercial kitchen flooring solutions depends on several factors, including the type of material used, the size of the kitchen, installation depth, and other construction considerations. While some non-slip solutions may seem to cost a little bit more than traditional flooring materials, the cost of a slip-and-fall accident can be far more expensive to the business. Therefore, investing in non-slip flooring solutions can be a smart decision to save money in the long run.
Commercial Kitchen Floor
The Pros and Cons of Non-Slip Commercial Kitchen Flooring
Pros:
- Enhances Safety: Safety is the top priority in every food service business, especially in a commercial kitchen where there is high foot traffic and spills can happen anytime. Non-slip flooring is a safety feature that prevents slips, falls and accidents in the kitchen. This type of flooring reduces the risk of injuries and provides peace of mind to the kitchen staff.
- Slip Resistant: Non-slip commercial kitchen flooring is designed to be slip-resistant, even when wet or greasy. The texture of the flooring provides grip and traction, which prevents slips and falls. This feature makes it ideal for kitchens, where spills, grease, and water are common.
- Easy to Clean: Commercial kitchen flooring must be easy to clean to maintain a hygienic working environment. Non-slip flooring is easy to clean because it is constructed with high-quality materials that do not absorb moisture. These floors are non-porous, and all types of spills and debris can be easily wiped clean, reducing the risk of bacteria growth.
- Durable: Commercial kitchen floors are subject to heavy foot traffic, furniture and equipment. Non-slip commercial kitchen flooring is durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic without cracking or chipping. It is also resistant to chemical spills, grease, and acids, which can damage other types of flooring.
Cons:
- Initial Installation Cost: The initial cost of installing non-slip commercial kitchen flooring can be significantly higher than other flooring options. This is because of the specialized materials and installation techniques required. While this cost may be high, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s a long-term investment that will save you money on repairs and replacements in the future.
- Prone to Scratching: Non-slip flooring is designed to resist slipping, but it is prone to scratching and scuffing. This is especially common in commercial kitchens, where heavy objects are sometimes dropped and dragged on the floor. Scratches and scuffs can become unsightly and may require costly repairs or replacements.
- Cold and Hard: Non-slip flooring can feel cold and hard underfoot, making it less comfortable for kitchen staff who spend long hours standing in one place. To make this feature more comfortable, kitchen managers can install anti-fatigue mats at workstations to reduce leg fatigue.
- Limited Design Choices: Non-slip commercial kitchen flooring comes in limited design and style options. This may restrict the aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. However, some manufacturers offer a variety of colors and patterns to choose from.
Non Slip Commercial Kitchen Floor
Why Investing in Non-Slip Commercial Kitchen Flooring is Crucial for Food Establishments
- Slip-and-Fall Accidents: Slip and fall accidents are a chief concern for any business owner. They can occur from anything, from spilled liquids, food, broken glass items to lack of non-slip flooring. In a busy kitchen, it’s even more critical to have a non-slip floor. Commercial kitchen flooring that is smooth or doesn’t have a non-slip surface can increase the likelihood of accidents. Non-slip flooring reduces the risk of slip-and-fall accidents, keeping employees and customers safe from injuries.
- Food Safety Compliance: Food safety compliance is regulated by different health and food authorities in each state. Most of these authorities enforce strict guidelines on food establishments to maintain food safety. Restaurants must follow these regulations as non-compliance carries hefty fines and penalties. Non-slip commercial kitchen flooring is mandated by many of these guidelines.
- Hygienic Benefit: Commercial kitchen flooring is susceptible to food and liquid spills, making it a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. Non-slip commercial kitchen floorings are easy to clean and disinfect, reducing the risk of germs breeding in the space.
- Improved Kitchen Efficiency: Commercial kitchens are fast-paced environments, and speed matters. Employees need to move quickly from one task to the next. Non-slip flooring reduces kitchen accidents, which slows kitchen productivity. A reduced accident rate means less time spent cleaning up spills and attending to injuries, resulting in an improved working environment.