The right flooring can boost productivity

Retail requires that you are on your feet for many hours of the day.  Keeping that in mind workstations should be evaluated for floor covering that takes away some of the fatigue that solid cement floors bring about.

Floor mats with extra padding often help.  Check stand areas could use an extra thick mat, just make sure the edges taper flush to the floor.  There are even ones that have contrasting color edges so that you can easily distinguish the floor mat.

The restaurant industry uses a honeycomb mat for wet areas and that may even work well for your application.  In some locations people have found that a wood floor (Pergo type) can create a softer ‘landing’ and reduce the body’s fatigue from being on your feet all day.

As we have said before, one size does not fit all so evaluate the situation and develop what works best for the employee and you.  Just don’t create a potential tripping hazard along the way!

Assessing capabilities of your workforce and designing within these parameters will positively affect productivity, efficiency and safety among all age groups of your crew.

WR Safety Specialist Rick Means is available to members to help draw up safety plans and suggest topics for safety meetings. Contact him at 360-943-9198 x18, or [email protected]