Industrial Floor Mats

The concept of industrial matting was developed mainly to protect the workers from accidents like slips and falls. Even though most slips and falls are considered minor injuries, millions of dollars are spent by industries on workmen compensation claims. Apart from that, claims are also made by the general public who suffer from injuries in the premises of industries. Hence, it is very important for industries to maintain workplace safety by taking care of wet, slippery floors. Industrial matting was primarily aimed at preventing accidents caused by wet, slippery floors, but later this concept was further developed to include the comfort of workers, from the ergonomic point of view.

What are Industrial Floor Mats?

Industrial floor mats are mainly made of rubber or PVC and include floor mats, matting, or modular floor mat systems. These mats are used for impact resistance and also to absorb large volumes of liquids or oil which are involved in day to day activities of some industries. In these industries, it is natural that the floors are sometimes wet or oily due to spillage from equipment. These slippery floors can be a reason for accidents, mainly involving the workers. In order to prevent this, industrial floor mats are used. These mats absorb the liquids or oil, making it safe for the workers. There are industrial floor mats specially designed for different types of industries. These mats are also used for the comfort of the workers, like in case of anti-fatigue mats.

Types of Industrial Floor Mats

Though the primary purpose is safety, industrial floor matting can be different for various industries. Industrial floor mats also vary according to the purpose of the installation. Let us take a look at the different types of industrial floor mats available.

• There are anti-static mats, which are used to prevent the buildup of static electricity. Such mats are conductive or semi-conductive in nature.
• Chair mats are designed in such a way, so as to avoid the rolling or moving of office chairs. These mats are placed above carpets.
• Anti-fatigue mats are meant for workers who have to stand for long hours. These mats are supposed to prevent the fatigue caused to them by continuous standing.
• Baths and showers are fitted with bath mats or shower mats, in order to absorb the water and prevent slipping.
• Drainage mats are meant to absorb water, mud and other impurities in workers' boots. Such mats either drain the impurities or air dry them.
• Industrial entrance mats and industrial door mats are specially designed to withstand heavy traffic in the entrance areas of industries. These mats also take care of the aesthetic appeal of the entrance.
• Clean rooms have mats an anti-bacteria feature and are easily washable to prevent the growth of germs.
• Scraper mats, as the name suggests, can scrape out the impurities in the boots of the workers before they enter the premises of the industry. Sanitary mats are also assigned with the same function - cleaning the workers' boots.
• There are specially designed mats for staircases, called stair treads, which are necessary for the safety of workers who use the stairs as part of their job.
• There are traction mats, used to maintain high traction on floors where forklifts and dollies are used.

Apart from all these, there are specially made industrial floor mats, which work according to the nature and requirement of the industry. While some are chemically resistant, there are others which are grease resistant. The former are made of materials which can resist common industrial chemicals, while the latter have ribs or holes which take in the oil and grease and maintain a grease-free surface. The performance of industrial matting depends on the width, length, thickness and weight per linear footage. It is also based on the nature of materials used for its manufacture. Apart from industries, industrial floor mats are widely used as flooring for dog kennels, gyms, salons, and hotels. Customized floor mats with logo are also commonly used to adorn the entrances or lobbies of hotels or business organizations.