How to manage wet & slippery surfaces in the food industry

How to manage wet slippery surfaces in the food industry

due to wet slippery surfaces Slips and Trips are a very costly part of everyday work life. An estimated 1.3 million work days were lost in 2012/13 due to slips and trips (Source: HSE). Personal injury claims are also on the rise making slips and trips an expensive business in more ways than one.

The Food Industry is unfortunate enough to have more than its fair share of slips and trips. They are the number one cause for accidents in the food and service industry and can be particularly hazardous due to the associated sharp tools and high temperatures involved. Slips on liquid or food spillages and greasy floors are prevalent in restaurants, kitchens, butchers, food markets and catering in all kinds of establishments.

This article will help you put the right measures in place to manage your wet and slippery surfaces and minimise the risk of injury to yourself, your employees and your visitors.

Determine your floor type

Start off by examining the type of floor you have. Different floor types have varying degrees of slip resistance.

Ideally you want a floor with high slip resistance. These tend to be specifically made for the purpose with grit added to the standing surface to provide traction. Safety vinyl, safety tiles or resin floors are good examples. Keep these floor types cleaned regularly and you can’t go far wrong. Ensure any spillages are removed quickly and effectively.

On the other end of the scale you have floors with a low slip resistance. These include smooth or shiny finish vinyl, lino, tiles, wood and metal floors. Such floors may have been buffed or polished which will increase the slip risk. The ideal solution is to replace the floor altogether with one that is more slip resistant. In the short term slippages can be better managed by providing slip resistant footwear to everyone in contact with the floors. Cleaning should be thorough and regular and all spillages must be cleaned as soon as they occur. Inform and train your staff of the risks and actions they need to take.

Conduct a slip audit

This will help you identify the areas at risk and allow you to take necessary actions to deal with them. The areas you identify will likely include prepping and washing areas, other working areas where food is being cooked and served. Look for any areas where floors may become contaminated with liquids, oil or food debris. Put an adequate cleaning and maintenance programme in place in these areas.

Prevention is better than cure

Prevent slips by stopping water and contaminants getting on the floor in the first place. Check that equipment has been maintained and there are no oil or water leaks etc. Have edged surfaces to contain spillages.

Where it is not possible to prevent liquids, food and contaminants coming into contact with the floor ensure you have good drainage channels in place. Rubber non slip safety mats should be placed at workstations where spillages regularly occur or where floors slope or get particularly greasy. Ensure they are grease proof so that they don' deteriorate and that they have bevelled edging so as not to cause a trip hazard.

Place good floor mats at all entrances to remove dirt and water from people's footwear at the door.

The Importance of Good Housekeeping: Preventing Accidents on Wet and Slippery Surfaces

Maintaining a safe workplace is paramount for any business, and one of the most critical aspects of this is ensuring that floors are kept clean and dry. Wet slippery surfaces are a leading cause of workplace accidents, resulting in injuries that can have significant financial and operational impacts. Good housekeeping practices are essential in preventing these accidents and creating a safer environment for everyone. In this blog, we will explore the importance of good housekeeping, the role of staff training, and effective strategies to manage wet and slippery surfaces.

The Risks of Poor Housekeeping

Poor housekeeping is the number one reason for trips and falls in the workplace. When floors are not routinely cleaned and maintained, they can become hazardous, especially when wet. Wet slippery surfaces can result from spills, leaks, or even routine cleaning activities. The consequences of these hazards include:

• Injuries: Slips and falls can lead to a range of injuries, from minor bruises to severe fractures and head injuries. These accidents can result in significant medical expenses and lost workdays.
• Productivity Loss: Injured employees may need time off to recover, leading to a loss of productivity. Additionally, other employees may need to take on extra responsibilities, increasing their workload and stress levels.
• Legal and Financial Implications: Workplace accidents can lead to compensation claims and legal fees, which can be costly for businesses. Ensuring a safe environment can help mitigate these risks.

Implementing a Cleaning Programme

A well-structured cleaning programme is essential for managing wet slippery surfaces. Here are some key components to consider:

1. Routine Cleaning: Establish a schedule for regular cleaning and maintenance of floors. This should include sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping to remove dirt and debris that can contribute to slippery conditions.

2. Smart Cleaning: Plan cleaning activities around or during less busy periods to minimize disruption and ensure thorough cleaning. This approach allows for more effective cleaning without interfering with daily operations.

3. Immediate Spill Cleanup: Clean up spillages as soon as they occur to prevent them from becoming hazards. Use appropriate cleaning tools and products to ensure that the area is thoroughly cleaned and dried.

4. Wet Pick-Up Vacuum Cleaner: Instead of using a mop, which can leave floors damp and slippery, use a wet pick-up vacuum cleaner. This equipment is more efficient and effective at removing water and leaving the floor completely dry.

5. Cordon Off Wet Areas: If it is not possible to leave the floor completely dry, use signage or barriers to cordon off the area. This alerts employees and visitors to the hazard and prevents accidents.

Training Your Staff

Educating your staff about the risks, causes, and prevention of slips on wet slippery surfaces is crucial. Training should cover the following topics:

1. Importance of Regular Cleaning: Emphasize the role of regular cleaning in preventing accidents. Ensure that employees understand the cleaning schedule and their responsibilities in maintaining a clean environment.

2. Immediate Spillage Removal: Train staff to clean up spills immediately and use the appropriate tools and products. Highlight the importance of leaving the floor dry to prevent slips.

3. Reporting Accidents and Defects: Encourage employees to report any accidents, near misses, or equipment defects. Prompt reporting allows for quick action to address hazards and prevent future incidents.

4. Use of Safety Signage: Ensure that staff know how to use safety signage and barriers to cordon off wet areas. This helps to alert others to potential hazards and prevent accidents.

Additional Preventive Measures

In addition to good housekeeping and staff training, consider implementing the following measures to manage wet slippery surfaces:

1. Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats in high-traffic areas and entrances to trap moisture and prevent it from being tracked indoors. These mats provide a stable surface and reduce the risk of slips.

2. Floor Treatments: Apply anti-slip treatments or coatings to floors to enhance traction. These treatments can be particularly effective in areas prone to becoming wet, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

3. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of floors and cleaning equipment to ensure they are in good condition. Address any issues promptly to maintain a safe environment.

4. Footwear Policy: Implement a footwear policy that requires employees to wear non-slip shoes. Proper footwear can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls on wet surfaces.

Conclusion

Good housekeeping is essential in preventing accidents on wet slippery surfaces. By implementing a structured cleaning programme, training staff, and taking additional preventive measures, businesses can create a safer environment for employees and visitors. The investment in these practices is minimal compared to the potential costs of workplace accidents. Prioritizing safety not only protects individuals but also enhances productivity and reduces legal and financial risks. Ensure that your workplace is clean, dry, and safe by adopting these best practices and making the prevention of slips and falls a top priority.

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