Studies show that Anti Fatigue Mats can increase productivity, improve worker safety, health and comfort. If you have workers standing or walking on hard floors for long periods of time, you will have a benefit from using them. We have Anti-Fatigue workstation mats, roll mats and modular mats to fit any area you require.
Anti-Fatigue mats are ideal for people who are required to stand or operate in one area for long periods of time. This can lead to fatigue which can impair one’s ability to perform their actions efficiently or effectively. This is most frequently the case in a work environment, but may also be the case in the home as well. Anti-Fatigue mats can be used as a solution to this issue.
How do Anti-Fatigue Mats work?
Provide comfort
Anti-fatigue mats work by providing a more comfortable standing or walking surface. The mats provide cushioning and insulation underfoot, which is more comfortable in comparison to standing on cold, hard floors.
Encourage movement
When standing on a cushioned mat, subconsciously you will be making very small movements in order to maintain your balance. These ‘micro-movements’ actually stimulate the blood flowing around your body. This, in turn, leads to more oxygen reaching all the parts of your body which will help your joints become less tired and your brain more active.
Provide a safe surface
The standing surface of an anti-fatigue mat is usually anti-slip, which is especially important in areas of reduced traction, such as in wet, oily, greasy or swarf areas. The borders of the mat should be low profile and bevelled, to reduce any trip hazard.
Which Locations do I use Anti-Fatigue Mats?
Anti-fatigue mats can be used anywhere where people are standing or walking on cold, hard floors for extended periods of time. Here we list some of the most popular locations that benefit from the use of anti-fatigue matting:
Work stations
Picking and packing areas
Production lines
Kitchens
Office stand-up desks
Reception desks
Cashier desks
Customer Services desks
Operating theatres
Security guard areas
What Different Types of Anti-Fatigue Mats are there?
Depending on the location of the mat and the use it will have, the ideal anti-fatigue mat choice will vary. Some examples are as follows:
Fixed size anti-fatigue mats
Mats in standard sizes, such as 2×3, 3×5 and 4x6ft, tend to be used in areas where the user tends to remain in one location, such as next to a desk, workstation or machinery for example.
Runner anti-fatigue mats
Runner mats tend to be supplied off a roll, in fixed widths and cut to a custom length. Locations such as production lines, corridors and walkways are examples where these mats are suitable.
Modular / Tiled anti-fatigue mats
Tiles can be fixed together to fit any size or shape of area. They can usually be cut to fit around obstacles or fixtures. Ideal for irregular or very large work areas which would otherwise need to be covered by placing multiple mats next to each other.
What are the Different Types of Anti-Fatigue Mat Materials?
Choosing what they are made out of will depend on the environment you need the mat for and the durability you require. The cost of different materials is also of note for the budget conscious customer. The main materials are listed below:
PVC
Normally the cheapest end of the market. PVC mats provide budget comfort, but tend to be less durable and less resistant to grease, oils and chemicals.
Rubber
Comfortable and slip resistant, with edges that are less likely to split, crack or curl. If using in an environment with oil, grease or chemical, consider using mats made out of nitrile rubber.
Polyurethane
Very comfortable and resilient, polyurethane mats quickly return to their original form. These mats tend to be at the higher price end of the market. They are more suited to dry areas, but not recommended where chemicals, grease or oils are used.
Which Anti-Fatigue Mats are suitable for wet areas?
Some anti-fatigue mats use cushioning that is not suitable for wet areas. If the mat soaks up the water and remains wet for a long time, the mat may quickly deteriorate or even rot over time. It can also harbour dirt and bacteria which may be harmful to health. Yo0.u should look for mats which use closed-cell cushioning, such as our Interlock Solid Rubber Tiles & Edges which will not allow moisture to be held within the mat.
Most anti-fatigue mats feature a non-slip surface, by using an embossed surface pattern. This usually suffices for dry areas, but may become slippery in a wet environment. PVC mats in particular tend to have less traction when water is able to sit on the surface of the mat. In comparison, rubber mats tend to have more grip underfoot, but the best mats for wet areas will ensure that water flows away from the standing surface. Look for a mat with flow through holes such as our Cushion Flow Anti-Fatigue Mat, or a bi-level design, which ensures the water drops to a lower level beneath the footwear.
Need more help choosing your Anti-Fatigue Mat?
Choosing the right anti-fatigue mat for your facility can be difficult when you consider the many choices available to you. We are happy to help you cut through this choice and ensure you get the right mat for your premises. Use the Contact Form for additional support.
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