Introduction
Schools are places of learning, growth, and community. Ensuring the safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors is paramount. One often overlooked aspect of school safety and aesthetics is entrance matting and stair nosings. These seemingly minor components play a significant role in creating a safe, secure, & welcoming environment. In this article, we'll explore several benefits of entrance matting and stair nosings in schools.
Improved Safety
Enduring Entrances:
Entrance matting is designed to trap dirt, moisture, and debris, stopping it from being tracked into the building by foot traffic, and preventing it from spreading throughout the rest of the school. This helps maintain a clean and dry surface, reducing the risk of slip and fall accidents – a critical concern in schools where high volumes of pupils are constantly moving from being outside in all weather conditions.
Main Entrance Matting Solutions:
Follow-on Secondary Barrier Matting Solutions:
Safer Stairs:
Stair nosings are designed to clearly define the edge of each step, making it easier for pupils to navigate. Gradus recommends using a stair edging that visually contrasts with the floorcovering by at least 30 LRV points, to sufficiently define the step edge. Stair nosings that have slip-resistant inserts also reduce the chances of slips, trips, or falls by providing additional traction, creating a safe environment for circulation spaces.
Stair Edging Solutions:
Maintenance Cost Savings
Prolonged Flooring Life:
Entrance matting and stair nosings both protect the surrounding floorcoverings from damage caused dirt, debris, and heavy levels of footfall. Using these products can help extend the lifespan of the floorcoverings, reduce cleaning & maintenance, and ultimately save money on costly repairs or replacements.
Easy Cleaning:
Entrance matting can be easily maintained through regular cleaning, making it an efficient way to sustain a safe, clean, and hygienic environment. Stair nosings are also simple to clean and reduce the accumulation of dirt in stairwell corners and edges.
Gradus has step-by-step cleaning & maintenance guidelines for all our products.
Enhanced Aesthetics
Represent The School:
Entrance matting comes in a wide range styles and designs, allowing schools to choose colours that align with their branding and create a welcoming atmosphere. Stair nosings can be selected to match the overall design theme as well as clearly defining the step edge, contributing to a cohesive and appealing interior.
Compliance with Accessibility Standards
Stair nosings that contrast with the floorcovering by at least 30 LRV (Light Reflectance Value) points help aid individuals with visual impairments in identifying step edges. This ensures compliance with the Building Regulations and other accessibility standards, providing a safe and inclusive school environment.
Conclusion
Entrance matting and stair nosings may seem like minor and sometimes overlooked components of a school's infrastructure, but their impact on safety, maintenance, aesthetics, and accessibility cannot be overstated. By investing in high-quality entrance matting and stair nosings, schools can create a safer, more visually appealing, and inclusive environment for everyone who enters their doors. These small details can make a big difference in the overall experience of students, staff, and visitors, ultimately contributing to a positive and welcoming educational atmosphere, as well as reducing cleaning and maintenance costs.