Increase Employee Productivity with Anti-Fatigue Matting - Universal

The Problem

An uncomfortable work environment can negatively affect productivity and increase the likelihood of muscle strains and joint pain. Standing for long periods can cause Cumulative Standing Trauma (CST) which is linked to the loss of billions of dollars annually due to reduced productivity, higher absenteeism rates, increased worker compensation, and higher insurance rates.

The Solution

Implementing ergonomic solutions, like industrial-grade anti-fatigue matting, can make employees more comfortable, and therefore more productive. When jobs require an employee to stand for long periods of time, blood flow to the lower extremities is restricted causing soreness and fatigue.

Anti-fatigue mats provide support to muscles in the lower legs and back and promote subtle movement in the leg and calf muscles which results in increased blood and oxygen flow. Think about how it feels when you stand on a soft surface. The surface gives way as you apply pressure, and your lower body compensates with small muscle movements.

What to Look for in Anti-Fatigue Matting

Think like Goldilocks in your quest for matting. Compression deflection is the measurement used to gauge the displacement of the mat under pressure. A load is applied to the mat and the results show the deflection as a percentage. Typically, one load is applied at 20 psi (pounds per square inch) which equates to a 150-pound person. Another load is applied at 40 psi which equates to a 600-pound person. Research suggests that the optimum deflection for both loads should fall between 20% and 60%. Anything less than 20% feels too hard, while anything over 60% can be perceived as too soft. Like Goldilocks, you need something in the middle that feels just right.

Consider the quality of the mat and your environment. Anti-fatigue mats are available in virtually every price range, but as you might expect, price is often linked to performance. Make sure you understand the expected service life of the mat and how it will perform in your environment. Will your matting be exposed to grease, oil, or chemicals? Will you be using plasma cutters, grinders, or welders that generate slag? Are you working with equipment or components that are sensitive to static electricity? Make sure you select a mat that can withstand the rigors and safely meet the requirements of your work space.

About M+A Matting

M+A Matting represents the merger of Mountville Mills and The Andersen Company, two long-standing brands with more than 100 years of combined experience developing and manufacturing mats designed to make facilities safer, cleaner, and more comfortable.

Our anti-fatigue matting is designed to provide outstanding comfort in even the harshest environments. The Complete Comfort™ II mat is constructed with 100% nitrile foam making it grease/oil proof, chemical resistant, and welding safe. It’s also treated with an anti-microbial agent to help prevent odors and degradation. Learn more at www.mamatting.com .

Jordan Striblin, Mountville Mills, Inc.