Floor markings are a low-cost yet highly effective way of boosting both safety and efficiency in a warehouse environment. Floor marking tapes are super easy to use but that doesn’t mean that mistakes do not occur there is a range of easily made mishaps that can mean simple floor tape solutions are not utilized. To help you get the best results from floor markings, here are the common mistakes that can be avoided:
- Dirty surfaces
Of course, the floor is bound to have a buildup of dust and dirt from ongoing operations, but this does not create a good base for the adhesive of floor tape. To create a strong bond between the tape and the floor, the area must be thoroughly cleaned before application and have a chance to air dry to remove any moisture. To do this, use your normal floor cleaning products and a mop to remove any dirt before allowing it to naturally dry before any floor markings are put down. - Ignoring color codes
As standard, most floor marking tapes are sold in a variety of color options and hazard patterns which are designed to meet U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration requirements. For example, the yellow and black striped tape may be used to indicate a hazard in the area whereas blue may be used to indicate the area is used for equipment ready for inspection. Whatever color code you choose to follow, ensure it is consistently used throughout the site so it can be recognized by everyone who is in the area. - Poor installation
Taking any shortcuts or applying floor markings without an understanding of what you’re doing can result in ineffective results that are not likely to withstand the test of time. When ready to apply the tape, it is important to mark the area in advance to ensure it is accurate and any lines are applied straight, using a guide if needed. Once the markings have been laid, it is important to apply pressure to the length of the tape by using a weighted roller or heavy piece of machinery, allowing it to stick properly before it comes into contact with any dirt or moisture. - Not maintaining markings
In many cases, floor markings will encounter heavy footfall and vehicle traffic all day long, making them bound to wear down quicker than they would if used in a storage area or as a perimeter marking. Where this is the case, it is important to replace the floor tape promptly to ensure it is as visible as it should be, removing any faded or torn markings. If an aged tape is not attended to, it can create hazards in the workplace as traffic may not be able to see the directions and instructions or may not be aware of an immediate hazard.
Additional Resources
- Floor Marking for Factories– creativesafetysupply.com
- Floor Marking – 7 Common Mistakes– blog.creativesafetysupply.com
- How to Design a Floor Marking System for the Workplace– floortape101.com
- Heavy Duty Floor Tape- Why It Is Required?– heavydutyfloortape.com
- Floor Marking Guidelines– safetyblognews.com
- Implementing Floor Markings in your Facility– hiplogic.com
- Floor Marking Tapes and Shapes– floor-marking-tape.com
- What are Specialized Floor Tapes?– blog.safetytac.com
- How To Mark Your Site With Floor Tape for Ultimate Safety– realsafety.org