I think I would have refused point blank to remove the door mats until the IO couild show me where it says that floor linings should be class "0" surface spread of flam, or that mats could be a trip hazard, or any sensible reason that warrants their removal. And thats me speaking as an IO myself.
It is pratts like this what gives the rest of us such bad press.
I wonder if the IO's boss knows what he/she is up to. It might surprise you to learn that a lot of Safety Officer's work is not checked or monitored.
May I take this opportunity to apologise most sincerely, on behalf of the IOs of the UK, to the victims of the IO pratts in our ranks.
Very shortly I will be in a position to provide a consultation service to help the victims of overzealous (read stupid) IOs.