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Overview
Standing on hard floors all day can be very uncomfortable and put unnecessary stress on various parts of the body. When sitting down to work isn't an option, the best way to handle the stress and strain of hours standing in one place is to use an anti-fatigue floor mat. These mats are designed to make standing for long periods of time easier and more comfortable. There are a variety of options available, ensuring that you can find the right mat to meet your needs.
Function
Anti-fatigue matting comes in a variety of materials and designs. These mats are also known as stress-reducing mats and ergonomic mats. The purpose of these mats is to reduce the strain caused by prolonged periods of standing. Hard surfaces such as concrete cause the most strain and can benefit greatly from these mats. Anti-fatigue mats prevent pain in the back, legs and feet. These mats can be made of vinyl, rubber, foam, or carpeting.
Surface
When selecting the right anti-fatigue mat, you should take time to consider your choice. The right mat should be neither too soft nor too hard. A proper mat should provide significant cushioning and remain soft even after standing in one place. A mat that is too hard will provide no benefits. However, a mat that is excessively soft, or feels like sand, will be too difficult to walk on. When standing on the mat, it should be comfortable, noticeably cushioned, and stable enough to move around on.
Cleanliness
To determine the ideal mat for your needs, you should consider carefully the activities that take place in the area. Cleanliness is an important issue. Dirt, grime, and bacteria can quickly build up especially if the mat has a loose interlocking design. After determining what might fall on the mat, decide how it will be cleaned. If the mat will be rinsed regularly with a strong spray of water in industrial workshops or other areas, cleanliness should not be a problem. If you have less time to dedicate to cleaning you mat, make sure that the surface is solid. In retail locations where food is not a concern, these mats should remain relatively clean on their own with regular sweeping and the occasional wipe down.
Safety
While the benefits of anti-fatigue mats are unquestionable, there are some safety concerns connected with these mats as well. The most important safety consideration is the compatibility of the mat with the surface that it is being placed on. The mat should never slip or slide on the floor. It should also be thick enough that it doesn't bunch up when walked on. Some types of foam will break down as they are used, resulting in a layer of dust between the mat and the floor that can cause the mat to move around. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines for proper use of your mat and make sure that it is stable before working on it.
Considerations
Most anti-fatigue floor mats are designed for industrial and commercial use. However, many people spend hours at a time standing in their kitchen at home. For home use, there are some special considerations that should be taken. Carpeted floor mats are one of the best options. These are easier to clean and match to the home decor. Interlocking mats with small holes in them can get food stuck in them easily, so avoid this type of mat. If a carpeted mat doesn't provide enough cushioning, consider covering an industrial rubber mat with carpet. You can explore various anti fatigue mats both online and in hardware stores.
