Adopting a proactive approach to ergonomics and safety

FROM 2020 to 2021, the Health and Safety Executive found 39% of all reported work-related musculoskeletal issues were back problems, while a 45% were attributed to upper limb, including neck pain. The main causes were attributed to manual handling, repetitive work and long hours in tiring or awkward positions. 

Whilst industrial environments are often busy and physically demanding, organisations can successfully mitigate potential health problems associated with long periods of standing,  without disrupting the overall efficiency of operations, by undertaking a proactive approach to health and safety.

This includes reducing the level of stress placed on individuals’ backs by installing dedicated matting systems that improve employee comfort. Research by the University of Michigan evidenced the use of anti-fatigue floor mats throughout an eight hour standing shift reduced tiredness, as well as absenteeism, by one third, whilst also increasing standing comfort by 50%, when compared to a hard floor. 

This not only proves that anti-fatigue floor matting systems safeguard against potential health concerns associated with long periods of standing, but also ensures productivity levels are successfully maintained by providing the highest possible comfort levels. 

Focusing on fatigue

100% nitrile backed rubber mats are a popular option for manufacturing and warehouse environments, as the durable construction not only provides the highest standards of ergonomics, but also delivers first class durability and longevity, without staining or marking the floor. This includes eliminating potential damage to the floor from dropped tools or equipment, by successfully absorbing shock.

Increased comfort levels can also be achieved throughout the winter period as the floor matting provides a direct barrier between the cold concrete flooring and employees’ feet, in addition to minimising the transmission of sounds and vibrations. 

The versatility of nitrile constructions also facilitates the installation of the matting systems throughout a wide range of applications, including wet areas and chemical production, in addition to indoor and outdoor factory workshops. 

The multi-purpose Kleen-Kushion anti-fatigue floor mat range features an engineered cushioned top profile with active comfort zones that cushion the feet whilst on the mat. This is combined with a castellated pattern that creates enhanced grip to ensure the individual’s footing is consistently secure, whilst the slip resistant nitrile backing consistently keeps the mat in the same place.

Getting serious about safety

Whilst ergonomics will be the leading consideration when specifying and installing anti-fatigue mats, ensuring additional levels of safety by successfully mitigating against trips and falls is just as important. Of all non-fatal accidents reported to the Health and Safety Executive from 2020 to 2021, 33% were slips and trips.

By installing nitrile anti-fatigue mats throughout their facility, business owners can successfully improve the wellbeing of their employees, whilst simultaneously minimising the potential for slips and falls by ensuring the highest standards of safety and cleanliness. 

Rubber backed floor matting is resistant to oils, chemicals and skids and will lie flat under all conditions, even within the most demanding factory and warehouse environments. The high capacity for dirt and moisture capture also enables the mat to successfully minimise the level of liquid and tracked throughout the premises. 

The Kleen-Thru Plus floor matting system features ribbed drainage holes and anti-bacterial properties that ensures its resistance to oil and chemicals, whilst the rubber construction supports ease of maintenance as the material can be easily jet washed or hosed, when required.

Focusing on safety in further detail, wall signs, particularly in busy environments, can often be overlooked or missed, particularly due to the influx in messaging required throughout the pandemic. Finding alternative locations for these communications can create a safer environment, as essential messaging can be communicated more clearly, including the notification of potential hazards or high-risk areas.

Here the floor can provide business owners with an effective opportunity to succinctly communicate key safety messages to employees, by installing bespoke high visibility floor mats that are customised with dedicated messaging and branding. The addition of bright edges to low profile floor mats can also indicate the beginning or end of a specific manufacturing area, highlighting specific zones of the building, whilst also indicating designated walkways. 

Adopting a sustainable stance

Organisations are under increasing pressure to improve the sustainability of their operations, to assist their building in becoming carbon neutral ahead of the government’s 2050 deadline. As part of this, professionals are applying an environmentally efficient approach to their operations, including the installation of products that are manufactured from sustainable materials. 

For example, focusing on floor matting in particular, professionals are currently transitioning away from PVC manufactured products to high performance nylon ranges that offer improved dirt and moisture capture. The Kleen-Tex Super-Mat heavy duty matting system features a 100% nitrile rubber backing and is constructed from 100% Econyl fibres, a regenerated nylon textile composed of man-made ocean and landfill waste, including abandoned fish nets. 

By installing PVC free flooring matting systems such as this throughout the entrance to their premises, businesses can successfully increase the use of recycled materials and evidence the sustainability of their procurement throughout the entire supply chain.

To successfully fulfil these requirements for improved longevity and durability, professionals are also adopting a long-term approach to procurement by specifying high performance systems that deliver increased functionality and resilience to eliminate the costly and inefficient requirement for repeat purchasing.

Laying the foundations

Whilst ensuring these environmentally efficient products still provide the same high standards of performance is essential, professionals must also ensure they are considering each specific application throughout their building, to ensure they install the correct matting system in the appropriate location.

This application led approach to specification will aid the overall efficiency of the building’s operations, as by ensuring the correct product is installed in the right location to fulfil its purpose, the highest possible standards of productivity can be achieved. It will also ensure the highest standards of ergonomics, safety and cleanliness are achieved to consistently secure the highest possible standards of best practice.

By working with a single manufacturer, organisations can successfully ensure every specific requirement of their business is met in the most effective and cost efficient way and will continue to deliver the same high standards of safety and functionality years to come. Partnering with a European manufacturer will also significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the production and transportation processes, whilst ensuring the shortest possible leads times.

Lee Fox is director of global business development and key accounts at Kleen-Tex

For more information:

www.kleen-tex.co.uk

Tel: 01204 705070