Here are some of our most frequently asked questions about Anti-Fatigue Mats.
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What do anti-fatigue mats do?
Anti-fatigue mats are designed to reduce discomfort and fatigue caused by standing for extended periods. They are typically used in workplaces where employees stand for long hours, such as factories, retail stores, kitchens, and workstations. They work by cushioning your feet, reducing strain on muscles and joints, especially legs, lower back and feet.
Do anti-fatigue mats actually work?
While anti-fatigue mats are effective, they are not a complete solution. They work best when combined with other ergonomic practices, such as taking regular breaks, wearing supportive footwear, and alternating between sitting and standing.
The effectiveness can also vary based on the quality of the mat and the specific needs of the user. They promote micro-movements to encourage subtle movements as the body adjusts its balance, promoting better blood circulation.
The mat will also absorb some of the impact of standing and enhances overall comfort, leading to increased productivity and reduce risk of long term injuries associated with prolonged standing.
Where are anti-fatigue mats used?
Anti-fatigue mats are used in various environments where people stand for extended periods. Common places where Anti-fatigue mats are typically used:
- Industrial and Manufacturing Settings
- Retail and service environments
- Healthcare facilities
- Commercial Kitchens and Food Service
- Office Environments
- Laboratories and Research Facilities
- Workshops and garages
- Salons and Barber Shops
- School and educational facilities
These types of mats are very versatile and can be used in any environments where prolonged standing is necessary, providing comfort and reducing the risk of fatigue and related injuries
Should you wear shoes on an anti-fatigue mat?
Yes, you should generally wear shoes, especially in work environments. Shoes can provide additional cushioning, improved hygiene in work places such as kitchens and healthcare. It can also add another layer of safety in industrial workshops, which have steel caped shoe requirements. They overall add more stability to a worker but shoes such as dress shoes or high heels are not recommended.
Are thicker anti-fatigue mats better?
There are pros and cons to having a thicker anti-fatigue mat and it can offer certain advantages depending on the specific case.
Advantages
- More cushioning
- Can add more comfort than a thinner mat
- Better for high-impact areas where there is lot of movement or where heavy objects might be dropped
Potential Drawbacks
- If the mat is too thick it can create an unstable surface, which might lead to balance issues especially in tasks which require precision where lateral movement is common
- Thicker mats have higher edges which can be a tripping hazard in some environments, particularly in areas with a lot of foot traffic
- If the mat is thick but made of a soft material, it can cause feet to sink too much, leading to discomfort or fatigue over time due to the lack of proper support
How long do anti-fatigue mats last?
The lifespan of an anti-fatigue mat can vary widely depending on factors like the quality of the mat, the environment in which it's used, and the amount of foot traffic it endures. Generally an anti-fatigue mat lasts 1-3 years, this is different for every industry as the type of work affect the lifeline.
How do I know when to replace my anti-fatigue mat?
Any sign of wear, such as flattening or loss of cushioning, cracking or splitting or if the edges of the mat start to curl, these all indicate the mat is nearing the end of its useful life. Regularly inspecting your anti-fatigue mats for signs of wear or tear and replacing them as needed is important to ensure continued comfort and safety.
How to choose an anti-fatigue mat?
The two factors you have to consider are where the mat will be used and how often the mat will be used. Specific industries have different recommended anti-fatigue mats with specific features and benefits. Please contact us if you require further assistance with finding the best mat.
Can you put a chair on an anti-fatigue mat?
No, it is highly recommended to not place a chair on an anti-fatigue mat. It can damage the mat, making it compress unevenly, leading to permanent indentations or damage. The chair isn’t likely to sit in a safe and level position either so it can cause safety issues. If you need to alternate between sitting and standing, consider using a standing desk mat with a designated space for the chair or using a separate mat when standing.
What is the science behind anti-fatigue mats?
Anti-fatigue mats are designed to subtly encourage the body to sway naturally, which stimulates gentle movements in the calf and leg muscles. This helps promote blood circulation and prevents it from pooling in the veins, thereby reducing feelings of fatigue in workers.
Can you use anti-fatigue mats on carpet?
Yes, they work on floors and carpets.
Are all anti-fatigue mats the same?
No, not all anti-fatigue mats are the same and they vary in key aspects such as material, thickness, surface texture, size and shape, maintenance and cleaning.
Can I stack anti-fatigue mats to make them more effective to stand on?
No, it is not recommended to stack them as it causes an uneven surface. If your mat is worn out or nearing the end of its lifespan, it is highly recommended to replace your mats for safety reasons. Uneven surfaces can cause instability, discomfort and potentially even long term health issues.
Do anti-fatigue mats help ease discomfort?
Standing all day can lead to slouching, discomfort, and poor posture. An anti-fatigue mat helps alleviate this strain by encouraging natural and frequent adjustments in your standing position, allowing for even weight distribution between both feet.
Do anti-fatigue mats wear out?
Yes, they do over time. To assist in extending their overall lifespan, we recommend that you rotate your mats from high and low foot traffic areas so the wear is evenly distributed.
Can anti-fatigue mats be trimmed?
Yes, some of our anti-fatigue mats are made to measure and can be purchased by the metre for long work stations. Depending on the layout of your business we can help you work out a matting solution to suit your needs
Do anti-fatigue mats absorb sound?
They can absorb noise and sound vibrations, which can be very effective when handling heavy duty equipment.
How do I keep my anti-fatigue mats from sliding?
Our anti-fatigue mats generally come with bevelled edges which assist in reducing slips and trips, but you can always secure the mat to the floor with anti-slip tape.
How do I know if a mat is Chemical Resistant?
Use our Chemical Resistant Chart to help select the appropriate mat for your purpose.
We also have a range of blogs offering more information or we are happy to help! Contact us today.