Use Mats to Stop Glass Breakages Behind Bars and in Kitchens

Use Mats to Stop Glass Breakages

If you're an owner or manager of a bar, pub, restaurant, kitchen or canteen then you will no doubt be faced with the problem and need to stop glass breakages by your staff as they carry out their day-to-day duties. It is an all to frequent problem and a costly one too. You'll be pleased to know that there is a simple solution that will stop the majority of breakages, saving you money in the process and bringing additional health & safety benefits with it too.

Simply place soft cushioned mats, known as anti-fatigue mats, in areas where breakages are likely to occur. Doing so will give you the following benefits:

1. The mats will provide a soft surface which will stop almost all breakages occurring.
   
   
2. The mats will make standing and walking on them a pleasure for your staff, increasing morale and alleviating aches and pains, which in turn can reduce staff sickness.
   
   
3. The mats provide a non-slip surface to help stop slip and fall accidents, saving you money on compensation claims and reducing staff absenteeism.
   
   
4. The mats protect the flooring beneath, reducing cleaning and floor replacement costs.

So, as you can see, the benefits of having anti fatigue mats goes far beyond what you may have at first thought. Not only are you solving your glass breakage problem, but you are also solving a number of other problems which will save you money and many headaches in the long run.

 

Which matting do I buy to stop breakages behind my bar or in the kitchen?

There are many different types of anti-fatigue mats and you need to ensure you get the right one for your situation. Here's our quick guide to what you need:

1. 
   A Wet Area Anti Fatigue Mat

Not all anti fatigue mats are designed to go in wet areas such as behind bars and in kitchens. The cushioning needs to be encapsulated or 'closed cell', otherwise if the mats get wet, they could end up rotting and harbouring bacteria and odours.

2. Nitrile rubber construction

Nitrile rubber is grease and oil proof, and it will resist most chemicals. Choosing a nitrile rubber anti fatigue mat is of particular importance in a kitchen where grease will break down inferior mats which can make them more of a danger in a kitchen environment.

3. Flow through holes or Solid top

It's your choice. Do you want a mat with holes to allow the water and other debris to flow through the mat onto the surface below? Or do you want a mat that will keep the spillage on top of the mat?

There are pros and cons of each, and it depends on your situation. Holes will take the liquid away from the standing surface and therefore stop slips, but the mat will not be protecting your floor beneath, and you will likely want good drainage. A solid mat will be easier to clean, but you will need to have a mop, bucket, dustpan and brush nearby to clean up spillages and as they occur on the mat.

4. 
   A loose lay mat or a modular system

This depends on the area that you need to cover. Will a fixed size, loose lay mat fit the required area, or do you need a modular system of mat tiles which can fit any shape or size of area? Will your staff be walking around whilst working or do they generally stand in the same place?

5. A gripper surface mat or a flat surface mat

If the breakages normally involve spillage of liquid or if you are in a wet or greasy environment, then you are most likely going to need a high traction, gripper surface to help stop slips and falls.

 You can find a range of anti-fatigue mats suitable for behind bars and kitchens by looking at our website here: http://www.mats4u.co.uk/product/anti-fatigue-mats/kitchen.html

How to Keep Staff Safe in the Event of Glass Breakages in the Kitchen

Glass breakages in the kitchen can pose significant safety hazards for staff. Ensuring that your team knows how to handle these situations effectively is crucial to maintaining a safe working environment. In this blog, we’ll explore practical steps to stop glass breakages from causing harm and how to keep staff safe if they occur.

Preventing Glass Breakages

The first step to keeping staff safe is to stop glass breakages from happening in the first place. Here are some preventative measures:

1. Use Durable Glassware: Invest in high-quality, durable glassware that is less likely to break. Tempered glass is a good option as it is designed to withstand impact and, if it does break, it shatters into small, less dangerous pieces.

2. Proper Storage: Store glassware properly to prevent accidents. Use racks or shelves with dividers to keep glasses from touching each other. Ensure that shelves are sturdy and not overloaded.

3. Safe Handling Practices: Train staff on the proper handling of glassware. Encourage them to use both hands when carrying multiple items and to avoid stacking glasses. Remind them to be mindful of their surroundings and to move carefully in the kitchen.

4. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of glassware to check for chips or cracks. Remove any damaged items immediately to prevent them from breaking during use.

Responding to Glass Breakages

Despite best efforts, glass breakages can still occur. Knowing how to respond quickly and safely is essential to protect staff. Here are steps to take if there is a glass breakage in the kitchen:

1. Clear the Area: Immediately clear the area of all staff to prevent injuries. Ensure that everyone is aware of the breakage and stays away from the affected area until it is safe.

2. Wear Protective Gear: Before cleaning up the broken glass, ensure that staff wear protective gear such as gloves and closed-toe shoes. This will help prevent cuts and injuries from sharp glass shards.

3. Use the Right Tools: Use appropriate tools to clean up the broken glass. A broom and dustpan are effective for sweeping up larger pieces, while a vacuum cleaner can help remove smaller shards. Avoid using bare hands to pick up glass.

4. Dispose of Glass Safely: Place the broken glass in a sturdy, puncture-resistant container for disposal. Clearly label the container to indicate that it contains broken glass. Ensure that it is disposed of according to local regulations.

5. Check for Remaining Shards: After the initial cleanup, thoroughly inspect the area for any remaining glass shards. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe the floor and surfaces to pick up any tiny pieces that may have been missed.

6. Report the Incident: Document the glass breakage incident and report it to the appropriate personnel. This helps track the frequency of breakages and identify any patterns or areas for improvement.

Training and Preparedness

Regular training and preparedness are key to ensuring staff know how to handle glass breakages safely. Here are some tips for training and preparedness:

1. Conduct Safety Training: Provide regular safety training sessions for staff on how to handle glassware and respond to breakages. Include demonstrations and hands-on practice to reinforce proper techniques.

2. Create a Safety Plan: Develop a clear safety plan that outlines the steps to take in the event of a glass breakage. Ensure that all staff are familiar with the plan and know their roles and responsibilities.

3. Keep Safety Equipment Accessible: Ensure that protective gear and cleaning tools are easily accessible in the kitchen. Staff should know where to find gloves, brooms, dustpans, and other necessary items.

4. Encourage Reporting: Encourage staff to report any incidents of glass breakages, even minor ones. This helps identify potential hazards and areas for improvement in safety practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, preventing and responding to glass breakages in the kitchen is essential to keep staff safe. By implementing preventative measures, training staff, and having a clear safety plan in place, you can stop glass breakages from causing harm and ensure a safe working environment. Prioritize safety in your kitchen to protect your team and maintain a productive and efficient workspace.

Need more help choosing?

If you require further advice, then you can always contact us through the website or by phoning our customer service team on 0121 313 6748. 

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