Concrete Surfaces: How to Protect Customers and Staff From Trips and Falls on Your Commercial Premises
If you own commercial space, the idea of a customer or employee tripping and falling while on your property is probably one of your biggest nightmares. Below is a guide to the steps you can take to install and maintain the concrete surfaces on your premises properly, protecting your customers and staff from trips and falls.
Install Rubber Expansion Joints
When planning the installation of concrete surfaces, it is important that you plan for the natural contraction and expansion of the material. You should ensure that expansion joints are included in the design of your concrete surface. These rubber joints are intended to cushion the concrete as it contracts during cold weather and expands during warmer seasons. If you fail to add expansion joints during the laying of a concrete surface, it is likely that the concrete will begin to crack and break up, creating an uneven and unsafe surface.
Avoid Trees
While the idea of walking down a tree-lined concrete path may seem appealing, it could also be a recipe for disaster. The concrete may cover what appears to be a smooth piece of ground, however, underneath the surface of the concrete are the roots of the surrounding trees. As the trees grow, the roots will spread and could eventually create enough pressure beneath the concrete to cause it to crack.
Be Proactive
You should instruct your employees to report any cracks or any other damage to concrete surfaces soon as they spot them. Once a crack has compromised the concrete, the surface can quickly begin to decay. By taking swift action and calling in a concrete service or contractor, you can limit the danger to your customers and also the damage to the concrete. This will protect you against accident compensation claims and the cost of having to relay the entire concrete surface.
You should also arrange for any concrete surfaces to be periodically inspected by a concrete service. They will be able to assess the concrete for any signs of damage and weakness which may be invisible to the naked eye, enabling you to deal with any issues before they become dangerous.
By using a combination of careful planning and proactive maintenance, you can limit any risk that a customer or employee will suffer a trip or fall on your commercial premises. For further information about the installation and maintenance of concrete, contact a concrete specialist today.