Matting to Prevent Slippery Paths

July 8, 2024
Published on  Updated on  

Pathway on Decking

There are many things that can cause slippery paths, particularly during the autumn and winter months. Wet and cold weather conditions can leave water, ice and frost sitting on top of pathways, creating a slip hazard. A build up of moss and algae can also leave your path slippery underfoot.

Slippery paths are most common on surfaces such as decking, wooden sleepers, flagstones and other smooth concrete and stone.

So what is the best way of preventing slip and fall hazards outside of your premises? Here we discuss matting that can help to keep your paths safe and reduce the chance of injury to your visitors and any associated compensation claims.

 

Place Non-Slip Matting on Slippery Paths

Non-slip mats on a roll are perfect for slippery paths, or for even creating a non-slip pathway across your car park for example.

Non-Slip roll matting can quite simply be rolled out along pathways to create traction underfoot and provide a safe walking surface for your visitors. Likewise, during dryer months, it can simply be rolled up and stored for a rainy day.

Depending on how weighty the mat is, you may have to fix or secure it to the floor beneath using nails, adhesive or tape for example. This will prevent the mat from moving or creeping on your pathway.

 

Ensure they are weather-proof

As the matting is going to be placed outside, you must ensure that it is able to survive all types of weather. In cold weather conditions, some matting can crack or split, causing a trip hazard of its own and it will soon need to be replaced. Therefore, when purchasing a mat for slippery paths, ensure that it is suitable for outdoor use. Look for all rubber matting or heavy duty vinyl.

 

With or without drainage holes?

There are a number of types of roll matting available which will be suitable for pathways. One of the key differences you need to consider is whether you need drainage holes in the mat or not. If your mat is being placed on a completely flat surface, it is best to use matting with holes, which will allow any water to fall away from the standing surface, as opposed to sitting on top and creating a puddle.

Alternatively, if the area is sloped or ramped, you may not need drainage holes, as the water will naturally run off of the matting.

 

Keep it clean!

The cleaner you keep the mat, the better it will perform. Therefore it is important to choose a mat that is easy for you to clean. Most outdoor non-slip roll matting can be simply cleaned by hosing down or by using a pressure washer.

 

What next?

We hope we have helped you to understand how non-slip roll matting can be used to prevent slippery pathways. If you would like to go ahead and purchase some now, you can find our range of ruber roll matting here on the Mats4U website.

Alternatively, if you would like some more information, please do not hesitate to call us on 0121 351 4444 or use our Live Chat, during normal office hours, where we will be happy to help you.

Published on  Updated on