Why Entrance Mats Matter: Reduce Slips, Trips, and Facility Wear

When it comes to facility safety, the small details make the biggest difference. What is one of the simplest, most effective ways to keep floors safe, employees protected, and your building in top shape? The entrance mat. While they might look unassuming, high-quality mats work behind the scenes to stop hazards before they start.

Entrance Mat: The First Line of Defense

Every person who walks through your doors brings moisture, dirt, and debris inside. Without an entrance mat to trap it, that debris ends up on your floors, creating slick surfaces that increase the risk of accidents.

• Moisture control: Mats absorb rain, snow, and spills before they spread.
• Debris capture: Scraper textures grab dirt and grit that could otherwise grind into floors and cause wear.
• Grip and stability: Anti-slip backings keep mats locked in place, preventing bunching or sliding that could cause trips.

By investing in a commercial-grade entrance mat, facilities can stop problems at the door—literally.

Workplace Safety Starts at the Door

Workplace safety isn’t just about helmets, signage, and training. It starts with controlling hazards at entry points. The National Floor Safety Institute estimates that slips and falls account for over one million hospital visits each year. A well-chosen entrance mat can significantly reduce this risk by:

• Providing a stable walking surface, even in wet weather
• Reducing the need for constant floor cleaning during high-traffic times
• Creating a visual cue for visitors to wipe their feet and slow down

When mats are strategically placed outside doors, inside vestibules, and at interior transition points, they become an integrated part of your facility’s safety plan.

Slip Trip Fall Prevention Made Simple

Many slip, trip, and fall incidents are preventable with consistent mat maintenance and smart placement. Here’s how to make mats part of a prevention strategy:

• Use a mat system – A scraper mat outside, followed by an absorbent mat inside, offers layered protection.
• Inspect daily – Look for curled edges, shifted placement, or excessive wear.
• Choose quality materials – Ensure your mats are tested for slip resistance and durability.
• Match mats to your environment – For example, heavy-duty mats for industrial entrances, cushioned mats for long standing areas, and antimicrobial mats for healthcare.

By pairing the right products with regular upkeep, you’re not just reducing hazards, you’re protecting your team, your customers, and your bottom line.

Choosing the Right Entrance Mat for Your Facility

Not all mats are created equal, and the right choice depends on your environment, traffic levels, and safety priorities. A few factors to consider:

• Traffic Volume – High-traffic entrances need heavy-duty mats designed to withstand constant use without losing grip or absorbency.
• Weather Conditions – In snowy or rainy regions, choose mats with high water retention and quick-drying fibers to prevent slippery surfaces.
• Flooring Type – Match your mat backing to your floor surface to prevent sliding or damage. Rubber backings work well on most hard floors, while cleated backings are ideal for carpeted areas.
• Maintenance Needs – Some mats are easier to clean and dry quickly, making them ideal for facilities with limited cleaning staff.
• Brand Image – Logo mats can combine safety with a professional look, reinforcing your brand from the moment visitors walk in.

By taking these factors into account, you’ll choose a mat that not only enhances safety but also fits seamlessly into your facility’s operations and aesthetics.

The Payoff: Safety and Savings

Every slip or fall can cost thousands in injury claims, lost productivity, and even legal fees. Entrance mats are a small investment that pay off through:

• Fewer accidents
• Reduced floor maintenance costs
• Longer lifespan for interior flooring
• A cleaner, more professional first impression

An entrance mat isn’t just a décor choice. It’s a critical piece of your workplace safety strategy and a frontline tool for slip trip fall prevention. Durable’s high-quality mats keep people on their feet, protect your facility from wear, and help you avoid costly accidents.

If you’re a Durable Dealer with questions about carrying our entrance mats, or a facility manager looking to purchase mats through one of our dealers, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get expert guidance, product recommendations, and the right solutions to keep your entrances safe, clean, and ready for anything.