How to maintain your raised access floor

15 November 2024

A raised access floor should be exactly that ‘accessible’! We are also very aware that in any modern office spaces the operation and maintenance manual can become an unwieldy and daunting book of information. So to make it simple, we have summarised in a few handy steps what to and what not to do with your new access floor.

It is important that panels are removed and replaced by lifting and lowering in the horizontal plane. The panel edges are shaped to facilitate this removal and replacement.

The lifting of panels by a "hinging" action that is raising/pivoting from one side should be avoided if possible. However the system is designed so that lifting in this way does not damage components.

Each panel should locate without the use of force into its proper position. If it fails to do so, remove it and investigate the reason. Please don’t force panels into place!

SAFETY

Panels should not be removed and left out of position unnecessarily leaving the floor void exposed.

Panels should be lifted in rows rather than blocks (see diagrams below)

MAINTENANCE

The amount maintenance likely to be required will depend on function and the type and volume of traffic across the floor.

To prevent small problems becoming serious, adjustments and repairs should be actioned as quickly as possible. The remedy may be as fast and simple as changing standard panels in high traffic areas with others which are in more remote positions.

Should a panel show any sign of instability, investigate and rectify because there will certainly be a reason which should be exposed.

CLEANING

a)The Floor Void

Whenever panels have been out of position for access, the cavity should be checked for cleanliness. Vacuuming is the most appropriate method for removing dust and small debris.

If a floor sealer has been employed previously, any cracking or flaking should be noted so that repair work can be scheduled.

Bare Steel Panels

Keep clean by sweeping or vacuuming. Surface of bare steel panel maybe wiped over with a damp cloth.

Care should be taken to avoid use of excessive amounts of water.

Vinyl Covered Panels

Vinyl Covering, which has been bonded to access floor panels, is likely to have static control Properties.

Do not impair these by using sealing compounds, polishes etc.

Remove loose dirt and dust by sweeping and / or vacuuming. DO NOT WASH.

The recommended method for maintaining a good appearance on the floor surface is frequent dry rotary buffing.

The floor covering may become indented or lined by the wheels, castors or feet of static or moving objects.

It is strongly recommended to protect against damage by overlaying the floor with a suitable sheet material when equipment is being manoeuvred.

If you have any questions about your existing raised access flooring, contact the experts on 01926 425289.

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