We’ve all seen it—people rushing through busy entryways, cafes, or transport terminals, rarely paying attention to their footing. In these high-traffic areas, slip risks rise sharply, especially when floor surfaces aren’t properly assessed or maintained. One of the most effective ways to reduce this risk is through regular floor slip testing, which helps identify problem zones before they cause accidents.
Whether you manage a retail space, office lobby, or public facility, taking proactive steps to keep surfaces safe is both a legal and moral responsibility. A single incident can lead to serious injury and, in some cases, legal complications.
Here’s how to create a safer environment without slowing anyone down.
Know the Danger Zones
Some areas are more prone to slips and falls than others. These “hotspots” often share the same characteristics:
- High foot traffic
- Smooth or polished flooring
- Exposure to water, spills, or tracked-in debris
Look out for:
- Entrances during rainy weather
- Kitchens, bathrooms, and break rooms
- Hallways near vending machines or water fountains
- Ramps and stairways
Identifying these locations is the first step to reducing risk. From there, you can put specific safety measures in place.
Choose the Right Flooring (and Maintain It)
Not all floors are created equal. While polished concrete and tiles might look sleek, they often lack grip—especially when wet. In areas where people move quickly, slip resistance should be a top priority.
Tips for improving floor safety:
- Use slip-resistant finishes or coatings
- Opt for textured surfaces where possible
- Add non-slip mats in entranceways and kitchens
- Keep walkways clean and free from spills or debris
Equally important is maintenance. Over time, even slip-resistant surfaces can become smooth from wear or build-up of cleaning agents. Regular checks help prevent safety issues from creeping in unnoticed.
Install the Right Signage
Clear, well-placed signs make a difference—especially in transitional areas where people go from dry to wet zones (like lobbies leading to outdoor paths). Warning signs should be visible, non-cluttered, and positioned well ahead of hazards.
Make sure your signage:
- Uses high-contrast colours for visibility
- Is updated as conditions change (e.g., “Wet Floor” signs during cleaning)
- Isn’t overused—too many signs reduce effectiveness
The goal is to draw just enough attention to slow someone down for a second so they can adjust their footing.
Monitor Behaviour and Flow
People naturally rush when they’re late, stressed, or in a hurry to catch transport or beat the lunch queue. While you can’t change human nature, you can adjust the layout of your space to minimise unsafe movement.
Smart layout tweaks might include:
- Creating clear, wide pathways with minimal obstacles
- Using furniture or planters to subtly slow foot traffic in risky zones
- Directing traffic flow with barriers or floor markings
If you notice recurring incidents in certain spots, consider reviewing security footage or conducting on-site observations to see how people are moving.
Train Your Staff to Notice Hazards
Even with all the right equipment and design, hazards can pop up unexpectedly. That’s why your staff should be part of your safety system.
Train team members to:
- Report spills or slick areas immediately
- Check for worn or curling floor mats
- Identify when signage or cleaning needs to be updated
A culture of awareness is one of the strongest protections against slips—especially in fast-moving spaces.
Back It Up With Regular Testing
Even if everything looks fine, that doesn’t mean your floors are truly safe.
Regular slip resistance testing gives you measurable data to work from. It helps:
- Identify unseen risks in flooring surfaces
- Ensure your space complies with safety standards
- Provide a record of preventative action in case of incidents
You don’t need to test every square metre, but high-risk zones should be assessed on a regular schedule, especially after renovations or flooring changes.
Slowing Down Isn’t Always an Option—But Prevention Is
In places where people move fast, the environment has to do the work. Slippery floors, poor layouts, or unclear signage can quickly turn a simple rush into a serious injury.
By identifying risk areas, choosing the right materials, training your team, and making use of expert testing, you can make sure your space is ready—without expecting people to slow down.
