According to recent statistics, in 2022-2023, there were over 179,500 injuries caused by slips and falls in the workplace.
Imagine walking into a space where every step feels secure, where there is low risk of slips, trips and falls. Well, this is the promise of safety flooring.
This comprehensive guide will explore the world of safety flooring, from its definition and benefits to its applications across various industries.
What is safety flooring?
Safety flooring refers to specialised flooring covering designed to minimise the risk of accidents in various environments, particularly in high-traffic areas. Often, it is compiled from durable materials like rubber, vinyl, or linoleum. Safety flooring often integrates features like slip resistance, cushioned support and easy maintenance.
UK Safety flooring providers
In the United Kingdom, several leading safety flooring providers revolutionised the industry.
Altro is one of the leading pioneering companies that invented safety flooring. They contributed to advancing safety standards and technologies to make safety flooring able to reduce slips in various sectors, such as healthcare and hospitality.
Another leading UK safety flooring manufacturer is Polyflor, which mainly specialises in durable vinyl safety flooring that is durable and complies with safety standards. The polysafe collection has become widely used in the flooring industry.

Altro Xpresslay installed in Magics Bakery, Erith
Why is safety flooring safe?
Safety flooring is engineered to prioritise safety in settings where the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls is prevalent, accomplishing this goal through various essential characteristics.
Safety flooring is designed to meet and often surpass the safety standards and regulations established by authoritative bodies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
These regulatory organisations ensure that safety flooring undergoes comprehensive testing to evaluate its slip resistance, impact absorption capabilities, and adherence to other safety criteria.
A critical reference point for the necessity of safe flooring is outlined in the Workplace (Health, Safety, and Welfare) Regulation of 1992, specifically Regulation 12.
This regulation explicitly mandates that floors and traffic routes must be free from holes, excessive slopes, unevenness, or slipperiness that could risk individuals’ health and safety.
Therefore, safety flooring not only meets legal requirements but also plays a crucial role in mitigating potential hazards within workplace environments, ultimately safeguarding the well-being of employees and visitors alike.
Its design and composition prioritise safety, serving as an essential preventive measure against accidents and injuries caused by unsafe flooring conditions.
Benefits of safety flooring
There are many benefits of safety flooring, which make it an ideal flooring option for various environments. Some of the benefits include:
- Slip resistance: safety flooring provides excellent traction, which reduces the risk of slips and falls.
- Easy maintenance: Many safety flooring options are resistant to stains and are easy to clean.
- Durability: it is designed to withstand heavy use, reducing the need for frequent replacements and savings.
- Customisation: Safety flooring comes in various colours, patterns and textures, allowing for customisation to suit the aesthetic of different spaces.
- Comfort underfoot: Some safety flooring materials offer a comfortable surface to walk on.
Where should safety flooring be used?
Safety flooring is intended for use in commercial spaces, particularly for workspaces where safety is vital. Some of the key industries where safety flooring is ideal would be the following:
Safety flooring in healthcare facilities
Hospitals, clinics and care homes can benefit from safety flooring due to its hygienic properties and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. On average, 45,000 people visit Accident & Emergency daily, so ensuring durable flooring is paramount.
Some safety flooring options come with antimicrobial properties, adding an extra layer of protection against bacteria and germs. It is also easy to clean and disinfect, essential in healthcare facilities.

Safety flooring in commercial kitchens
The best type of flooring for commercial kitchens would be safety flooring, as it mitigates the risks of spills, grease, and water, all contributing to slippery surfaces.
The high traffic from chefs, waitstaff, and other personnel in these kitchens has heightened the risk of accidents. Safety flooring’s slip-resistant properties are crucial in providing traction, reducing the likelihood of slips and fall even in challenging conditions.

Safety flooring in retail stores
Safety flooring is crucial for keeping customers and employees safe in stores and supermarkets. These places are always busy, especially near entrances, aisles, and checkout counters, where people constantly move around.
With slip-resistant flooring, the risk of accidents like slips and falls is much lower, making everyone feel more secure. By having this type of flooring, stores show they care about the safety of shoppers and staff, creating a better environment for everyone.

Safety flooring in elderly care facilities
In nursing homes and assisted living facilities, one of the best flooring options for the elderly would be safety flooring, as it ensures the safety and comfort of elderly residents. With its cushioning properties, safety flooring helps mitigate the impact of falls, which can be especially hazardous for older individuals.
Additionally, the slip-resistant surface of safety flooring significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls, creating a safer living environment for elderly individuals with limited mobility or balance issues.

Safety flooring in industrial settings
In factories, warehouses, and industrial sites, the floors must handle heavy loads, chemical spills, and machinery use. Safety flooring in these places is tough, resilient, and can resist chemicals. Its anti-slip features help keep workers safer by reducing the chance of slips, trips, and falls, which are common in these environments.

Book Safety Floor Installation Today
We hope this blog has helped you understand the world of safety flooring and whether it suits your needs.
Remember, safety flooring is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about creating safer environments where people can move confidently and safely within the workplace.
If you are interested in installing a safety floor in your commercial space, choosing a professional flooring company is recommended.
Contact the team at London Commercial Flooring for a no-obligation quote.