Resin Flooring Systems in the Food Industry: Purpose, Function

 

 

In food processing environments such as bakeries and abattoirs, maintaining hygienic, durable, and safe surfaces is essential.

 

 

Resin coating systems—typically composed of epoxy, or polyurethane,—play a critical role in meeting these operational demands. These coatings are engineered to withstand the rigors of food production while complying with stringent food safety and health and safety standards such as R638 and the OH&S Act (85) of 1993

When it comes to accredited food safety management systems such as FSSC22000 and BRC, flooring specifications are very specific. The ISO22002-1 PRP Technical Standard (common to ISO22000 and FSSC22000) spells out very clearly all the compliance criteria pertinent to floors and floor coatings.

Functional Purpose

Resin coatings serve as protective barriers applied to floors, walls, and other surfaces.

Their primary functions include:

• Hygiene Control: Seamless, non-porous surfaces prevent microbial infiltration and simplify sanitation, supporting HACCP and EC compliance.
• Durability: Resin systems endure heavy foot traffic, mechanical loads, and thermal shock from ovens and refrigeration units.
• Chemical Resistance: Coatings resist degradation from acids, fats, oils, and cleaning agents commonly found in food processing.
• Slip Resistance: Textured finishes reduce the risk of slips and falls, especially in wet or greasy areas.
• Moisture Tolerance: Polyurethane-cement systems are particularly effective in damp environments like abattoirs.

Coving Detail

Coving is a critical feature of resin flooring systems, forming a curved, seamless junction between the floor and wall. This eliminates 90-degree angles where dirt and bacteria can accumulate, enhancing cleanability and hygiene.

• Material: Coving is formed using the same resin as the floor—epoxy or polyurethane.
• Height: Typically ranges from 50 mm to 300 mm, depending on hygiene requirements.
• Finish: Trowel-applied coving is bonded and sealed to ensure continuity with the floor coating.

 

• Benefits:
      o Prevents microbial growth in wall-floor junctions
      o Facilitates high-pressure washdowns
      o Supports regulatory compliance and inspection readiness

Application in Bakeries and Abattoirs

• Bakeries: Resin coatings resist flour dust, heat, and cleaning chemicals. Coving protects wall bases and prevents food particle buildup.
• Abattoirs: Coatings withstand blood, fats, and frequent washdowns. Coving ensures organic matter does not accumulate in high-risk zones.

Selection Criteria

Choosing the appropriate resin system depends on environmental conditions and operational needs: This is best to be specified by an engineer, or through a manufacturing company of these products where case studies have been tried and tested in the same type of industry sector.

Conclusion

Resin coating systems, including coving details, are indispensable in food industry facilities where hygiene, safety, and durability are non-negotiable. For engineers, owners, and project managers, selecting the right system ensures long-term performance, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.

Whether upgrading an existing facility or planning new construction, resin coatings offer a proven solution tailored to the unique demands of bakeries and abattoirs.

This article was written by Bjorn Lindemann a flooring specialist working for Vuka Floors. 

For more info on VUKA FLOORS CLICK HERE

The article was proof read by Barrie Barnard, Director of Integrated ISO Management.

For more info on INTERGRATED ISO MANAGEMENT CLICK HERE