During the holidays, you want customers focused on finding the perfect gift, not on watching their step. But busy aisles, wet entryways, and extra displays can make trips and falls more likely. While you already know the basics (like putting out a wet floor sign), let’s go a step further.
Here are a few more ways to keep your space safe and welcoming, literally from the ground up.
Review Your Entry
Entrances are a common spot for falls, especially when rain or snow gets tracked inside. A few steps can make a big difference:
When it’s wet
- Place absorbent mats inside and outside the entrance, and make sure the edges lie flat.
- Mats work best when customers take several steps on them before reaching a hard floor, and beveled, rubber-backed edges are less likely to curl or slide.
- Don’t assume customers know the floor is wet because of inclement weather: Put a wet floor sign out as soon as the floor gets wet.
- Consider an umbrella stand or bag station so dripping umbrellas stay by the door.
When it’s icy
- Clear snow and ice from sidewalks, steps, and parking areas you’re responsible for, and keep salt or sand on hand.
- Watch for ice melt tracked inside. Salt and ice melt can leave a slick, chalky film on tile floors, so mop it up rather than letting it dry.
Keep Walkways Clear
As you set up displays and arrange your space, keep the following in mind:
- Leave enough room in aisles for customers with strollers or shopping bags to pass comfortably.
- Pay attention to where flooring changes, such as carpet to tile or a mat edge to a smooth floor. Mark those spots with contrasting tape or a transition strip.
- Route extension cords for lights and displays along walls instead of across walkways. If a cord has to cross a path, use a cord cover and tape it down.
- Keep popular holiday items within easy reach. As you know, customers will often try to help themselves, even if it means stepping (or, eek, climbing!). For any out-of-reach items, post signage encouraging customers to ask an associate for help.
- Train floor staff to keep an eye on high shelves and busy displays so they can step in and lend a hand.
Make Safety Part of Your Team’s Routine
Your staff are your best line of defense, but only if they know what to look for. This is especially true for new seasonal hires.
- Walk new and seasonal employees through your space on their first day and point out spots that tend to get slippery or cluttered.
- Set a clear rule for spills: whoever sees it stays with it, or puts out a sign, until it’s cleaned up.
- Keep a log of safety checks to build accountability. Set regular check times, and have the assigned employee sign off once the check is done and any issues are addressed.
- Walk your space like a customer. Not only do you want to take note of any potential hazards to address, but you also want to make sure customers can easily spot your top-selling items.
Final Thoughts
A safe, clear, well-kept space isn’t just about preventing falls. It also makes shopping easier and more enjoyable, which is exactly what you want during the holiday rush.