Slip and fall accidents are a significant concern for businesses. Not only can they result in serious injuries, but they also carry high costs in liability claims. According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), falls account for over 8 million hospital emergency room visits, representing the leading cause of visits (21.3%). Slips and falls account for over 1 million visits or 12% of total falls.
High foot traffic areas can become unexpectedly slippery from spills or weather hazards for businesses like restaurants, medical facilities, and hotels. Over 50% of reported slips and falls occur in walkways, corridors, and lounges. Winter months also see upticks in accidents on wet floors caused by snow and mud tracked in from outdoors.
Strategically placed, well-constructed floor mats are crucial to enhance traction and reduce fall risks. Mickey’s Linen offers floor mat rental programs to equip businesses with durable, absorbent, protective matting. Unlike buying mats outright, renting saves you the hassle of high costs, upkeep, and the responsibility of replacement when damage occurs.
The Surprising Impact of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents may seem minor, but they carry staggering costs and consequences across various industries. Knowing important information and using preventive measures like renting floor mats can greatly protect people and your bottom line. According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI):
- Over 1 million people visit emergency rooms annually for fall injuries. The average liability claim for a slip and fall injury is $42,000.
- 75% lead to workers’ compensation claims averaging $50,000 per incident.
- Foodservice and hospitality see the highest frequency of claims.
Common High-Risk Areas:
Slips and falls often correlate to high foot traffic zones and transition spaces. The highest incident rates occur in:
- Entrances and doorways – excess moisture and debris
- Kitchen and food prep zones – spills
- Checkout lines and cash wrap areas – distracting environments
- Ramps, stairs, and changes in flooring – shifts in traction
- Patient and exam rooms – close quarters for carts
Mats are strategically placed to prevent slips by absorbing moisture, trapping dirt, and cleaning shoes and wheels. Using logo mats for high-risk zones like entrances, kitchens, checkouts, ramps, and transitions promotes your brand while preventing falls.
Common Causes of Falls:
Not all falls arise from obvious liquids. A variety of obstructions can contribute to slip and fall accidents, such as:
- Snow, rain, and icy buildup tracked inside
- Food and beverages – both spills and grease
- Clutter or obstructed views
- Loose rugs or damaged spots in flooring
- Wheeled traffic from carts, luggage, and transports
- Water, snow, and mud from shoes and wheels
With floor care options from Mickey’s Linen, businesses get hassle-free delivery and maintenance. Our team picks up, cleans, and replaces soiled mats on a regular schedule, ensuring you always have clean, functional mats that keep your business safe and looking its best.
Strategic Floor Mats: The #1 Solution
Maintaining clean floors shouldn’t be an accident waiting to happen. Reduce the risk and liability of slip and fall accidents for your business with the help of floor mat rentals from Mickey’s Linen. Connect with our experts to get a customized floor safety solution designed for your exact needs!
