Slips, falls, and fires are three events that need to be minimized in self-service laundries. These events, probably more than any others, are drivers in higher insurance rates for laundromat operators. A diligent, discliplined approach to preventing slips, falls, and fires can save money on insurance premiums while maintaining strong customer relationships.
Slips and falls occur in serveral ways. Falling on wet, slipplery floors is at the top of the list. Whether from rain, snow, drains, spilled drinks or liquid detergents moisture on the floor needs to be removed ASAP. If the floor is recently mopped than a sign alerting customers to that fact should be placed on the floor. If the store is attended, the attendant can help warning customers as well. Walk-off mats or area rugs that have had their ends turned up or moved in such a way to promote a trip should be straightened out. Are seating units and laundry carts in proper condition?
Any children’s toys on the floor? It doesn’t take much to create a hazard on your floor. Consistent attention is critical to minimizing slips and falls.
Fires are a different matter. Many times over drying delicates or solvent or grease laden items are the route of the fire and the owner /attendant is unaware of what is being dryed and at what temperature. Spontaneous combustion in untended laundry loads is also an issue. Obviously , some of this is beyond the owner’s control, However, some fire prevention activities are within management’s control. First, make sure lint drawers are cleaned daily. Next, inspect and clean duct work and the internal components of the dryer at least annually ( semi-annually would be better). Third, make sure the dryers are cycling properly from high limit to low limit back to high, etc. Also, the proper amount of cool-down time is needed to avoid spontaneous combustion. Finally, make sure the integrity of the drying cabinet is secure with no holes in it.
Actively maintaining a dryer will decrease the likelihood of fire
