Of the worker’s compensation claims that are filed annually, 85% result from slip and fall accidents at work. Between compensation and medical costs, these accidents cost around $70 billion annually, not to mention the added cost of lost labor.
Although accidents are bound to happen occasionally, there are a few steps you can take to decrease the likelihood of costly accidents in buildings with concrete flooring. Here are some of the best ways to improve your risk management in the workplace:
Increasing visibility is vital in preventing slip and falls. Something as simple as using a lighter color on the floor can create a brighter, safer environment for workers. A bright floor also makes it easier to notice when objects or debris falls in your path. Other important safety measures include ensuring adequate, even lighting throughout the facility since shadows can mask uneven flooring, creating a potential hazard.
Another way to improve visibility is to apply brightly colored tape or signs around particularly dangerous areas, such as stairs or large machinery. However, these attention-grabbers should be used strategically. The more tape or signs are hung in an area, the less attention they will draw.
Although it may seem obvious, it’s worth repeating: if tools, rags, or other small equipment are routinely left around, the likelihood of tripping increases. Keeping tool chests or racks for such equipment close to the work area encourages employees to keep the work area tidier and safer.
Spills pose another danger to workers. In addition to causing a slip, certain liquids can damage concrete floors over time. This damage can result in cracks or chips that may trip workers. All spills should be cleaned up quickly and thoroughly to minimize risk.
Concrete settles as it cures. This settling can cause flooring to become rough, pitted, or cracked, causing workers to stumble. When this happens, it’s a good idea to consider local garage floor sealing companies to patch your floor. By filling damaged areas, sealing companies can restore a smooth, safe surface.
Besides presenting a tripping hazard, a damaged floor can also wear out equipment more quickly. It also places added strain on workers, who must constantly walk across the surface. Uneven floors cost employers for lost labor, increased maintenance costs, and greater risk to employees. Because of these potential losses, a high-quality concrete floor coating can often pay for itself. Speaking of which…
One of the best ways to both prevent worker injuries and protect your floors is by investing in a high-quality concrete floor coating for your garage, hanger, or warehouse. Commercial floor coatings provide better traction, a key factor in preventing dangerous slips and falls. They also provide increased strength and protection to your flooring so you don’t have to worry about the threats posed by chipped or cracking floors.
Polyaspartic coatings are a favorite of many employers. One reason is that they dry considerably faster than similar epoxy coatings. Depending on the size of the facility, a polyaspartic coating can be installed in a single day. Further, this formula has been in use for over 20 years and is proven to give off little if any odor or gas. This makes it an appropriate concrete floor coating even for spaces with little ventilation.
If you’re concerned about the safety of your employees, contact your local northern Virginia garage floor sealing companies for more information. By preventing damage to floors, providing better traction, and even by lightening a garage or warehouse, a good concrete floor coating creates a safer environment for everyone.