A recently released survey finds that most facility managers are well versed on the benefits of matting systems. The survey was conducted for Crown Mats and Matting during early February 2008. Nearly 120 people participated.

More than 95% of the respondents indicated they have mats installed at key building entries, and nearly 82% own, rather than rent, their mats.

Further, another survey question revealed that two-thirds know a high-performance matting system usually has a longer warranty and is more effective at capturing and trapping soil.

Among other findings:

91% know high-performance matting systems play a role in green cleaning.

70% understand that a "scraper mat" is placed outdoors to aggressively remove soils from shoes.

Similarly, 72% know a "wiper mat" is placed inside a facility to remove remaining soils, contaminants, and moisture from shoes.

One survey question asked how many people are hospitalized each day in the United States as a result of slips and falls. "Most of the respondents said it was 1,000 per day," says Tricozzi. "However, the correct answer is closer to 10,000, and many of these [accidents] could be prevented if an effective matting system was in place."

As to stopping soil, the respondents were evenly divided when asked how much money it costs to remove one pound of soil from a building. Half answered $250 to $500, while others thought it was $750. The correct answer, according to ISSA studies, is around $500.

The respondents were also asked what the term "Rule of 15s" means, as it applies to matting systems. A third said it means mats should be 15 feet long. However, the Rule of 15s actually means three mats-a scraper, a wiper/scraper, and a wiper-each five feet long, should be placed at all building entries. This was correctly answered by about 50% of respondents.