When an orthopaedic rehabilitation hospital in Athens, Greece, opened a new wing comprising of a physiotherapy pool, shower areas and changing rooms, safety was top of mind. The building team specified a high performance mat that would remain sturdy underfoot, even when wet. The matting also had to be suitable for covering the metal steps leading to the pool, and for continuous submersion in water. The pool was to be used primarily by the elderly, people with disabilities and the injured, so the matting needed to be soft and comfortable underfoot.

The nature of the pool’s users meant the matting needed to provide equal amounts of grip and comfort underfoot. With the guidance of a specialist flooring contractor, hospital management decided to install our barefoot matting Heronrib around the parameters of the pool, as well as down the stairs leading into the water.

Made from strong, non-porous PVC with channelled underbars, Heronrib automatically self-drains – even when faced with the largest amounts of water. Certified slip resistant, the etched surface provides extra traction underfoot, while the underbars help to cushion and protect bare feet. Permanent antimicrobial and antifungal additives help to protect against fungal and bacterial contamination – a must for any wet area where there’s direct skin contact.