Commercial property owners are turning their attention to proactive accident prevention in 2014. Pushed by alarming slip and fall statistics by insurance companies like Liberty Mutual and CNA, American businesses are taking action to ensure preventable accidents do not cause serious bodily harm to employees and guests.
The question of ADA compliance is also a focal point for businesses that are actively trying to improve facilities. Some feel moral or ethical obligation to make facilities a better, more accessible place. Others are motivated primarily by the need to comply with local and federal building codes and regulations.
No matter what the reason, the re-evaluation and improvement of commercial entryways is a trend that is warmly welcomed by a business sector that has serious slip and fall concerns. Reports issued by insurer CNA indicate that as many as 60% of all falls on commercial property occur as the result of poorly maintained floor surfaces (i). According to Liberty Mutual, slip and fall accidents cost American businesses an estimated $13 billion or more in compensatory damages and workman’s compensation (ii). Business leaders have heard the warning, and now they are taking action.
Recessed Grill Mats
Pictured left is a recessed grill mat called the Pedimat (iii). It is manufactured by Construction Specialties. Take a moment to review the image, and note the following:
First, the surface of the recessed grill is comprised of alternating slats. These slats have just enough space between them to allow major debris and moisture pass through to the underlying recess, where contaminants are held until vacuumed clean by maintenance.
Following installation, the recessed grill mat is flush with the ground. This creates a minimal tripping hazard while also adding a high degree of aesthetics appeal.
Recessed grills feature slats that come in a variety of materials and colors, allowing businesses to customize them to meet both safety and aesthetic needs.
Do Recessed Grill Mats Comply with ADA?
Now for the important question: Do recessed grill mats comply with the ADA? In fact, they do. According to the manufacturer, Construction Specialties:
“Yes, using our poured abrasive or vinyl inserts you can meet the higher requirement for static coefficient of friction recommended by the ADA. The mat will also need to be mechanically fastened. Please contact the factory with this special request.” (iv)
What type of facilities use Recessed Grill Mats?
Like any piece of commercial/ safety flooring, the need for a recessed grill mat is measured by a few variables that ultimately have a big impact on safety. Facility traffic is the biggest issue to consider. Facilities that receive a high volume of guests will experience more dirt, debris, and moisture accumulation in entryways. Ordinary rubber, carpet, and/or vinyl mats might not be sufficient in capturing and controlling such debris. In this case, a recessed grill mat is best.
Other facilities are located in regions that experience harsh weather and, as a result, need an industrial strength grill mat installation to keep snow, wind, and rain from projecting debris and contaminants past entryway doors. Recessed grills are particularly popular in northern climates that experience a lot of snowfall, as the slatted surface of the grill system effectively captures incoming rock salt.
Still other facilities install grill mat systems for aesthetic reasons. A variety of slats and carpet/vinyl inserts are available to customize the appearance of the grill system, enabling upscale locations to blend them nicely with marble, tile, terrazzo, and other types of high-end flooring materials.
Examples of commercial properties that use recessed grill mats include:
- Airports
- Transportantion hubs
- Banks and lending institutions
- High end commercial business facilities
- Upscale shopping centers and department stores
- Buildings with vestibules
- Luxurious condominium complexes & apartment buildings
Find Recessed Grill Mats Online
Before choosing to purchase a recessed grill mat online, it is wise to visit an authorized dealer to view product images, dimensions, installation instructions, and final-install photos. Recessed grills are a premium product that comes with a relatively high price tag and might require floor alternations for installation, so it’s a good idea to do your due diligence.
Sources:
(i) CNA Insurance.
(ii) Liberty Mutual Research Institute.
(iii) Image Courtesy of Eagle Mat and Floor Products.