Although matting systems historically have been used to promote safety, today they are considered an integral part of green cleaning. This is because they help keep outdoor soils and contaminants from being "walked in" to a facility, resulting in a healthier indoor environment and reducing cleaning needs.

One of the first questions asked was what percentage of contaminants are captured and trapped by a high-performance matting system. Fifty-five percent knew they are estimated to trap as much as 80 percent of the contaminants. (Answers to all questions are below)

Another question asked the respondents to define the expression "Rule of 15." Eighty-four percent knew it refers to the number of feet of matting needed at building entries to help keep contaminants out.

Safety Issues Explored
The respondents were also asked a number of questions relating to slips and falls and overall building safety.

Among the findings were the following:
• More than half of the respondents knew it is estimated that 35 percent of workdays are lost each year as the result of slips and falls.

• Nearly half knew that the National Safety Council estimates the average cost of a slip and fall in lost work time, worker's compensation, and medical costs is about $50,000 per incident.

• Eighty percent thought 10,000 people or less are hospitalized per day in the United States as a result of slip and fall accidents. However, the figure is much higher, closer to 20,000.

"This survey tells us that most of the respondents are aware of the environmental benefits of high-performance matting systems and how they can promote safety," says Phyllis Lark, marketing manager for Crown Mats. "However, it also indicates more education [on these benefits] may be needed in certain areas."

Approximately 600 jan/san distributors and other cleaning professionals were asked to test their knowledge about high-performance matting systems, with more than 100 responding. The online study was conducted by Crown Mats and Matting.