Scott Saunders, Technical Service Manager at Watco, discusses how timely repairs and protective coatings can help facilities improve safety, efficiency and professionalism year-round.
A well-maintained facility does more than keep operations running smoothly. It creates a safer, more productive environment for all who use it. From manufacturing sites to busy logistics hubs, wear and tear on floors, walls and loading areas is inevitable. Yet delaying essential maintenance can lead to a cycle of damage, disruption and unnecessary cost. By taking a proactive approach to repairs and using the right protective coatings, facility managers (FMs) can extend the life of their building and make it safer.
Act fast on repairs
Concrete floors, steps and loading bays can become damaged through traffic, dropped items or general wear. Cracks and holes in the floor may start small but if left untreated, they worsen through continuous use and allow water and debris to penetrate deeper into the surface. This causes further deterioration, leading to costly, time-consuming repairs that disrupt facility operations.
Scheduling regular inspections helps to spot early signs of damage. Facility teams should look out for chips and potholes in high-traffic routes, loose thresholds around doorways and any areas where the floor feels uneven. Introducing a clear internal reporting process encourages staff across the facility to report any damage as soon as it is spotted too. This eases the pressure on the FM team to complete frequent full-site inspections and frees them up to carry out repairs.
Repairing damaged surfaces quickly prevents trip hazards, protects vehicles from damage and reduces the likelihood of longer downtime later. Keeping a stock of repair materials on site helps too. Rapid-curing epoxy resin mortars and fillers allow work to be completed within hours, so repaired areas can be returned to service quickly with minimal disruption.
Protect and prevent
Once repairs have been completed, applying a coating helps to strengthen and protect surfaces against future wear. Coatings act as a barrier between the substrate and the everyday impact of footfall, machinery, liquids and chemicals. They are particularly useful in areas exposed to moisture or where hygiene is important, such as loading docks, workshops or manufacturing sites.
Protective coatings don’t just add durability, they can also improve safety. Anti slip coatings contain particles of varying size and grades which provide grip underfoot, particularly in areas that get slippery. Bright, contrasting coatings can also improve visibility in darker corners or along walkways, guiding team members safely through the space. For multi-use areas, coatings can be combined with line marking to clearly define zones for pedestrians, vehicles and inventory, helping to reduce congestion and confusion.
When applying coatings, preparation is key. Surfaces must be clean, dry and free from dust or grease for the coating to adhere properly. Where time is limited, fast-drying options can be applied and ready for use within a day. Following manufacturer guidance on mixing and curing ensures a long-lasting finish that delivers on both performance and appearance.
Ongoing commitment
Regular maintenance isn’t a seasonal task, it’s a continuous effort to improve the efficiency, safety and appearance of a facility. By encouraging the wider team to report damage and prioritising timely repairs, FMs can stay on top of potential hazards and maintain high operational standards year-round.
Whether preparing for seasonal peaks or managing day-to-day operations, prioritising the condition of floors, steps and loading areas sets the foundation for a safer, more efficient workplace.
For more guidance and practical resources on maintenance and repair solutions, visit www.watco.co.uk/help-advice.
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