Do Non-Slip Mats Really Help Reduce Kitchen Accidents in NZ Workplaces?

Slippery kitchen floors are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries in commercial environments. In New Zealand's fast-paced hospitality and food service industries, minimising slip hazards is critical to maintaining a safe, compliant, and productive work environment. This is where non-slip kitchen mats come in.

At Insinc Products, we know how vital it is to provide safety-first solutions that don’t compromise on durability or ease of cleaning. But do non-slip mats truly reduce accidents, or are they just another workplace trend?

The Science Behind Non-Slip Kitchen Mats

Non-slip mats are specifically designed to provide grip underfoot, even when the surface is wet or greasy. They are usually made from high-quality rubber and feature textures or perforations that help disperse liquids and increase surface traction.

The key design elements include:

• Raised surface patterns for improved grip

• Drainage holes to prevent pooling of liquids

• Bevelled edges to reduce tripping hazards

• High-grip rubber that anchors the mat in place

These features work together to create a more stable and secure surface for workers in high-risk areas.

A detailed report titled An overview of floor slip‑resistance research with respect to slip‑reducing features, published by the U.S. Government Publishing Office, reviews how slip-resistant mats and flooring designs can significantly reduce slip incidents. The research highlights that floor mats with appropriate traction and drainage features can play a critical role in workplace safety—particularly in wet and food-service environments.

How Non-Slip Mats Reduce Kitchen Accidents

1. Lower Risk of Slips and Falls

Kitchens are prone to spills, splashes, and condensation. Non-slip mats quickly drain away liquids and provide secure footing, drastically reducing the chance of slipping.

For more on how mats contribute to overall staff wellbeing and operational efficiency, check out our related article: How Can a Quality Kitchen Floor Mat Improve Staff Comfort and Safety?. It dives deeper into ergonomic support, fatigue prevention, and how the right mat can help your team stay safer and more energised throughout the day.

2. Improved Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations

WorkSafe New Zealand mandates that employers take "all practicable steps" to eliminate hazards in the workplace. Installing non-slip mats in wet areas can demonstrate compliance with these expectations.

3. Enhanced Staff Confidence and Efficiency

Employees who feel secure on their feet are more confident and productive. This leads to smoother workflows, especially during peak service times.

4. Protection Against Costly Injury Claims

Slip-and-fall accidents can result in expensive ACC claims, lost labour hours, and reputational damage. Investing in quality floor mats is a small cost compared to the potential financial impact of a workplace injury.

If you're still weighing up your options, our guide Which Kitchen Mat Is Right for You – Anti-Slip, Anti-Fatigue, or Both? offers a side-by-side comparison to help you choose the best mat for your specific workplace conditions. Whether your team needs support during long shifts or maximum grip in wet zones, this article breaks down the benefits clearly.

FAQs

Q1: Are all non-slip mats the same?

No. Quality varies based on material, design, and intended use. Look for commercial-grade mats with anti-fatigue and drainage features for best performance.

Q2: How often should non-slip mats be cleaned?

Daily cleaning is recommended for high-traffic kitchens. Regular maintenance ensures optimal grip and hygiene.

Q3: Can I use non-slip mats on top of tiled floors?

Yes. Rubber-backed mats adhere well to tiled surfaces. However, ensure the mat is flush with the floor to avoid trip hazards.

Q4: Are these mats suitable for front-of-house areas?

Some non-slip mats are aesthetically designed for customer-facing areas like café counters or bars.

Conclusion

Non-slip mats are far more than just a compliance measure. They actively reduce the risk of workplace injuries, enhance efficiency, and save businesses money in the long run. For NZ commercial kitchens, they’re a practical, proven safety upgrade.

Browse our selection of non-slip and anti-fatigue mats at Insinc Products to find the perfect fit for your workspace.