What Are Anti-Fatigue Mats? Origins and Benefits

03.07.2023

What Are Anti-Fatigue Mats? How Were They Created and What Are Their Properties?

Ergonomics, the science of work, was established in the 19th century to define working conditions aligned with human physical and psychological capabilities. The goal is not only to optimize results but also to preserve employee comfort and prevent occupational diseases. Notably, Polish scientist Wojciech Jastrzębowski was one of the pioneers of ergonomic theory. In today’s age of widespread access to knowledge and technology, we must continue to uphold this humanistic principle and take care of employee wellbeing. Discomfort can last well beyond the workday, which is why anti-fatigue mats are an excellent place to start.

Advantages of Using Ergonomic Mats

High Durability and Resistance

At Power Rubber, our rubber floor mats are made from high-quality, durable materials with excellent resistance to abrasion, oils, greases, and chemicals. Nitrile rubber mats, for example, withstand high temperatures and repel moisture, preventing damage from freezing and thawing.

Floor Protection

Rubber industrial mats shield floors from cracks and chipping. In areas where tools may fall, mats help prevent floor damage and reduce the risk of slips and injuries caused by uneven surfaces.

Equipment and Surface Protection

Hard, bare concrete surfaces can damage equipment and the floor. Industrial mats absorb impact energy, protecting both items and infrastructure—essential for sensitive equipment.

Noise and Vibration Reduction

Our ergonomic mats help dampen noise and vibrations, particularly in manufacturing environments, improving concentration and reducing stress.

Shock Absorption

Concrete floors are unforgiving. Anti-fatigue mats cushion footfall, absorbing pressure and improving worker comfort and safety.

Slip Prevention

Most ergonomic mats feature anti-slip surfaces, ideal for slippery, oily or damp areas. Learn more about these mats in the section on non-slip surfaces below.

Why Use Anti-Fatigue Mats?

Also known as ergonomic mats, anti-fatigue floor mats reduce tiredness from standing or kneeling for long hours. Standing still for extended periods decreases blood circulation, causes muscle fatigue, and can lead to hip and lower back pain.

Our mats are designed to stimulate leg micro-movements, which improves circulation, boosts wellbeing, and reduces fatigue by up to 50%.

Where They Work Best

Anti-fatigue mats are used in:

Food processing plants
Production lines
Clinics and medical centres
Shops and retail counters
Bars and kitchens

They absorb shock from walking and reduce the risk of joint and spinal compression.

Key Benefits

Protect workers from injury
Prevent slips and falls
Insulate from cold floors
Improve productivity and concentration

Non-Slip Mats: Boosting Workplace Safety

Slips and falls are among the leading causes of workplace accidents. High-quality non-slip rubber mats with beveled edges reduce this risk and allow forklifts to move easily over them. Their textured surface ensures grip, while drainage holes prevent pooling of oily liquids and water.

Foam mats suit dry environments, but Power Rubber’s mats also perform in wet or oily areas, making them ideal for slippery industrial floors.

ESD Mats for Electrostatic Protection

ESD mats prevent damage from electrostatic discharge. These often-invisible discharges can harm sensitive electronics. Power Rubber’s anti-static mats, made of polyurethane foam, rubber, or vinyl, protect both workers and devices. Available in cut-to-size rolls or modular puzzle mats for larger areas.

Industrial Ergonomic Mats from Power Rubber

Power Rubber offers a wide selection of ergonomic mats for:

Factory lines
Workshops
Kitchens and food facilities
Bars
Offices
Kneeling pads

Our mats feature:

Excellent grip
Slip resistance
Freedom of movement
Beveled edges to prevent tripping
Thermal insulation
Compliance with workplace safety standards

For full specifications, visit the ERGONOMIC MATS section. A healthy and happy worker is every employer’s pride.