Anti Fatigue Mats

Which Anti Fatigue Mats Should You Choose?

Why Anti-Fatigue Mats Matter

Anti-fatigue mats are essential for creating a safer and more ergonomic working environment.

By reducing the physical strain of standing for long periods, our mats help enhance productivity and overall worker well-being. They provide a sturdy yet cushioned surface that minimises discomfort, allowing workers to focus on their tasks with less fatigue, for a healthier working environment.

Key Advantages of Anti-Fatigue Mats

Investing in anti-fatigue mats can significantly improve workplace conditions, providing better comfort while reducing fatigue, slips and trips. Studies, including one from Loughborough University have consistently shown the practical benefits of anti-fatigue mats.

• 75% of businesses report an overall improvement in worker well-being after using anti-fatigue matting
• 44% of respondents noted an increase in productivity due to reduced physical strain
• 23% of businesses observed a decrease in absenteeism linked to improved employee comfort

How to Choose the Right Anti-Fatigue Mat

When choosing an anti-fatigue mat, you should consider factors such as material durability, thickness, and anti-slip properties to match your workplace requirements. Our range includes options suitable for industrial and commercial environments, ensuring you find the perfect fit.

We’ve created a video demonstrating the most popular options from our range of anti-fatigue mats, highlighting the factors you should consider. Below is our expert-written guide on how anti-fatigue mats can provide tangible benefits to your workplace and your workforce.

With First Mats an expert is only a phone call away, so please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Anti-Fatigue Mat FAQs

Do anti fatigue mats actually work?

Independent studies suggest they are highly effective and can significantly reduce the effects of fatigue and pain caused by standing on hard surfaces for extended periods. We have written an article explaining how they work, with statistics on their effectiveness, which you can read in our blog article, What Are Anti-Fatigue Mats.

Do anti fatigue mats increase productivity?

Studies have shown that the benefits of anti-fatigue mats include better productivity, thanks to their ability to make workers more comfortable on their feet. 44% of respondents to a 2015 study in the UK said that the matting has a positive impact on productivity.

Are thicker anti fatigue mats better?

Thicker is not always better, as a surface that's too thick and too soft will be unstable and unsafe to stand on. The standard thickness ranges from 9mm to 14mm, which provides the fatigue-fighting benefits while also being safe to stand on.

What are anti fatigue mats made from?

Standard mats are made from microcellular foam, which is comfortable to stand on. For more demanding industrial settings, choose rubber or vinyl-topped anti-fatigue mats.

Can anti-fatigue mats be used with oil?

Most anti-fatigue mats are made from foam or natural rubber, so they aren't compatible with oil. Instead, choose matting made from nitrile rubber for oil resistance.

Is it safe to roll a trolley over an anti-fatigue mat?

Trolley wheels can quickly damage standard foam-based mats. If your workplace uses trolleys, consider a rubber or vinyl-topped anti-fatigue mat for better durability.

How long do Industrial Anti Fatigue Mats last?

The lifespan depends almost entirely on the usage. If you are using a suitable mat for the environment, you should expect at least three years of usage before replacing the mats.

Can anti-fatigue mats be stuck to the floor?

We strongly advise against using adhesives as this will damage the mat when you try to move it. However, many mats come with anti-slip features to stay in place without needing adhesives.

Learn More About Anti-Fatigue Mats

Discover the full potential of anti-fatigue mats with insights from our team at First Mats, taking advantage of years of experience and in-depth research. 

Choosing the Right Anti-Fatigue Mat

Selecting the right anti-fatigue mat can significantly impact the comfort and productivity of your workplace. When choosing a mat, consider the following factors:

• Material: Choose between foam, rubber, or vinyl-topped mats depending on the level of durability and slip-resistance needed.
• Thickness: A thickness between 9mm to 14mm is ideal for balancing comfort and stability.
• Environment: For industrial spaces with potential spills, opt for mats made with oil-resistant materials like nitrile rubber.

Understanding your specific needs and environment will help you select a mat that not only meets safety standards but also promotes the well-being of everyone who uses it.

Author Information: The following article has been written by the team at First Mats, combining years of experience with detailed research. This enables us to provide customers like yourself with the best information to help you find the right anti-fatigue mats for your needs and learn how to use them properly and safely.

References;

• Loughborough study with COBA - https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/dspace-jspui/handle/2134/23823
• https://www.bhf.org.uk/heart-matters-magazine/activity/sitting-down
• https://www.tuc.org.uk/sites/default/files/footwear.pdf- Working feet and footwear

First Mats Choice

• AtEase Pebble Standard Anti-Fatigue Mat Roll

  ["Pebble Textured Surface","9.4mm Thickness","For Light Industrial Use"]

  2 to 3 working days
  £0.36 Excl. VAT
• Diamond Foam Heavy-Duty Vinyl-Top Fatigue Matting

  ["Hard Vinyl Surface","14mm Thickness","For Heavy Industrial Use"]

  2 to 4 working days
  £0.50 Excl. VAT
• Rubber Workshop Swarf Catch Mat

  ["Swarf Trapping Surface","13mm Thickness","For Universal Usage"]

  1 to 2 working days
  £29.90 Excl. VAT