Selecting the Best Anti-Fatigue Mat for Your Workplace
The surface a worker stands on can greatly affect that worker’s productivity, as well as their chances of injury on the job. Workers who are forced to stand on hard surfaces, such as untreated concrete or linoleum, are at far higher risk of developing foot and leg injuries that slow productivity and can cause needless missed work days. Such surfaces are also prone to causing slips and falls which, according to the US Department of Labor, make up the majority of general industry accidents.
Estimates are that more than 95 million work days are lost each year nationwide due to flooring-related incidents, or roughly 65% of all work days lost.
Quality anti-fatigue mats installed throughout a facility at workers’ stations are one of the best and most cost-efficient methods of mitigating such issues. An operation which can deploy the best anti-fatigue mat options will almost inevitably see greater worker productivity, as well as reduced time off due to injury.
Key Components of The Best Anti-Fatigue Mats Available
- NFSI Certification
The National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) is an industry body dedicated to researching and promoting flooring solutions which protect workers and prevent health issues. NFSI extensively tests submitted products for slippage, ergonomics, and other safety considerations. Products bearing NFSI certification have met the highest standards for floor safety currently available.
- Rubberized Construction
Rubber-based materials are key to allowing anti-fatigue mats to work, as well as making them simple to clean. The flexibility of rubber provides a standing surface much closer to the natural environments human legs evolved to stand on. They simultaneously increase worker comfort, while encouraging muscle movements that prevent blood pooling in the legs and feet. Combined, these aspects greatly reduce health problems related to standing for long periods.
- Anti-Microbial Properties
In any environment where contaminants may be an issue, anti-microbial elements in mats are essential. Special treatments discourage the growth of mold, mildew, and other health risks. Flow-through design maintains the stability of the mat while preventing liquids from pooling on the surface.
- Low-Profile Edging
An anti-fatigue mat needs to encourage safety, not create new risks. Low-profile edges reduce the chances of tripping, and yellow safety borders can draw further attention to the mat’s presence.
Kleen-Tex has over fifty years’ experience supplying the best anti-fatigue mats to industries around the world. Contact us today to learn more about our cost-efficient safety solutions.
