Industry expert suggests preventative floor maintenance is essential

Scott Saunders, Technical Manager at coating and repair product company Watco UK, has emphasised that adopting a proactive approach to warehouse floor maintenance can greatly enhance safety and efficiency.

Saunders recommends that warehouse managers schedule regular inspections, focusing on floors, steps and drainage. Minor cracks and loose edges should be repaired immediately before they develop into larger issues. He recommends that floor inspections and minor repairs should be an everyday routine.

Anti-slip floor coatings must be kept in good condition, particularly in areas such as entrances and wash-down zones that are frequently exposed to moisture. If worn, coat the floor with fresh anti-slip coating.

If a specific area of the floor consistently requires attention, it indicates that a more permanent solution is necessary for that section. Protective mats can help, or perhaps a section of the floor should be replaced.

Saunders also notes that many industrial coatings and floor paints are designed to dry quickly, minimising downtime. In as little as two hours, a freshly coated floor can be ready for use again.

Pedestrian zones, parking bays, forklift routes and storage areas should be clearly marked with paint or safety tape. Floors cluttered with debris should be cleared and faded markings renewed.

Staff should be aware that regular maintenance of floors contributes to long-term safety and productivity.

It is equally important to routinely check warehouse equipment, including picking and storage trolleys, to ensure their castors are functioning properly, and allowing the trolleys to travel smoothly without undue effort.

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