High traffic areas, where higher levels of soil track into a facility and can result in more aggressive wear on floors, vary from facility to facility. A high traffic area could be a stairway, a lobby, an entrance, a restroom, a cafeteria, or even all of the above. Since these high traffic areas are used and seen the most frequently, these areas are of utmost importance when planning and performing floor care tasks.

Below are some general tips when in comes to caring for high traffic areas, to make the job easier, safer, and more effective.

Prevention – One of the most effective ways to prevent high traffic areas from becoming heavily soiled is by keeping as much dirt at the entrance as possible. This means using proper walk-off matting. 12 to 15 feet of walk-off matting placed directly at the facility entrance can greatly reduce the amount of dirt spread throughout the facility. This in turn reduces floor care time and cost.

Areas within 25 feet of the entrance should also be dust mopped and damp mopped as often as possible to keep dirt at bay. During times of bad weather, extra walk-off matting can also be used.

Timing – It is always best to schedule floor care tasks for when the areas are closed or traffic is at its lowest. This can vary from facility to facility.

If maintenance must be done when the area is being used, then appropriately mark off sections of the area so that portions of the area can still remain open. Try to use physical barriers to keep occupants off of closed sections of floor; wet floor signs alone often do not cut it.

Know the Maintenance History – Looking at past schedules of floor care tasks can help to prepare; you will be much better informed as to what procedures need to be performed at what frequency in different times of the year.

Safety – Always be mindful of hoses, handles, and cords that are running along or across high traffic areas, as these can be slip and fall hazards. Be sure there is adequate lighting and signage so occupants can see and know that work is going on.

Speed Up Drying – Try to use quick drying cleaners and finishes, and don’t use too much product. Try to plan tasks for times of low humidity, if possible. If all else fails, using fans or air movers can also help reduce drying time, which translates to less down time for high traffic areas.

Here are some facility-specific tips for high traffic areas in various facilities:

Education – There are concentrated times of the day, days of the week, and months of the year when traffic is especially high. Plan accordingly.

Health Care – Sanitation, noise, and odor are all concerns.

Retail – Appearance and safety are the biggest factors here.

Convenience Stores – Early mornings are usually a time of heavy traffic.

Industrial – Plan for special soil types and heavy traffic during certain parts of the day.

Commercial Offices – Evenings, nights, and weekends are great times for floor care tasks.

Airports – Supervision of areas is needed throughout the process, and low-moisture cleaning is important. Heavier procedures are performed during the night.

For more information on floor care, be sure to visit our Floor Care Webpage.