By
Rebecca Lambert |
This article was first published in the Autumn/Winter 2017 issue of Cruise & Ferry Interiors. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Today, entrance flooring is fundamental in modern marine interior design. Having an entrance matting system protects interior floor coverings, therefore prolonging their life as well as reducing cleaning and maintenance costs. Entrance floor coverings help to create a safer and more pleasant environment for passengers by removing walked-in dirt and moisture.
Creating good entrance flooring involves thinking about footfall – the number of people walking in and out in a given period – and walking routes (the directions they take once inside), and applying that information in the design of the entrance area. One of the best ways to apply a successful matting system is to not only consider your major entrances, but to also think about high circulation areas such as exits onto decks. Naturally, onboard seagoing vessels there is more exposure to moisture than dirt so choosing the correct matting system is key. Research shows that 86% of the total cost of commercial floor coverings is maintenance. A good quality entrance system can greatly reduce this figure. An entrance matting system with high moisture absorption properties is an essential component in reducing time spent on cleaning and maintenance and keeping interiors floor finishes looking good, not to mention the reduction of cost.
The beauty of an entrance matting system is that passengers don’t have to actively wipe their feet, the system does the work invisibly without any effort. It’s an unsung hero in the world of flooring. For example, just six metres of Coral T32 FR – designed for seagoing vessels as part of the market-leading Coral range of ‘clean-off’ entrance system products – can reduce up to 94% of walked-in dirt and moisture.
Not only do entrance matting systems reduce costs, they also have a critical safety role to play. Reducing the amount of moisture walked into marine vessels reduces the risk of slips and falls. In addition to its excellent dirt scraping and moisture absorption properties, Coral T32 FR meets all the fire safety standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for products used in seagoing vessels. Yarn and backing systems have been developed to meet the stringent smoke toxicity and low flame spread standards required to achieve the IMO Wheelmark. As a result, the flooring can be used with confidence on cruise liners, passenger ferries, charter boats and other seagoing vessels, in addition to offshore facilities.
Great modern marine interior design combines practicality and safety with style, and entrance flooring is key to creating a positive first impression for guests. Coral T32 FR, for example, is designed to provide excellent dirt storing and soil hiding with durable construction using a 60% wool and 40% nylon mix, in a range of colours to complement today’s marine interior designs. That means every guest can make an entrance on attractive, clean flooring, no matter how many have walked on it before them.