Anti-fatigue Floor Mats
Anti-fatigue floor mats can reduce foot pain and tiredness by absorbing some of the pressure from hours of walking or standing on hard floors. The cushioned surface prompts frequent and small leg and muscle adjustments, which can help to maintain blood flow and decrease the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have several industry-specific guidelines targeting industries that are at most risk for musculo-skeletal injuries.
When buying anti-fatigue floor mats, consider:
- Exposure to chemicals, which will dictate what matting material is most suitable
- Sealed surfaces and other resistance to the negative effects of cleaning agents
- Surface grip; enough to keep them in place but also easy to move
- Beveled edges to reduce tripping
- Cushioning; sufficient to encourage subtle movements but not too soft
In addition to their anti-fatigue properties, these mats may also be:
- Anti-slip
- Anti-static
- Perforated with drain holes (for wet areas)
- Spark-resistant or welding-safe
- Grease-resistant
- Crush-resistant
- Abrasion-resistant
On average, an anti-fatigue floor mat can be used for one to three years. Rotate mats between high- and low-use areas to extend their useful lives and replace them when they show signs of wear.
Anti-fatigue floor mats are available in various sizes, surfaces, materials, and colors.
Med Vet International Safe 'n Warm Standing Fatigue Mat, 19" x 38" x, 2", J0769, Each
What about the veterinarian or the staff? Long hours of standing on hard floors during surgery or even in the reception area can develop leg and back soreness. These comfortable mats also work for people. Tapered or beveled edges for safety.
Enterprise Technology Solutions Lorell Antifatigue Mat, 3-Layer Memory Foam, 32"x20"x3/4", Black
This anti-fatigue mat is designed to work in tandem with standing desk risers (sold separately). It will help support your back, hips, knees and feet so you can get all the benefits of standing while you work. This versatile desk mat effectively "reduces" your weight by 30 percent to make standing easier on your feet and joints. Advanced multilayer construction offers a comfortable, leatherlike top surface; a memory foam inner layer; and a nonslip bottom. A perfect 30" x 20" size provides plenty of room to move around, but still can fit into the kneehole of a standard desk or built-in when it is not being used. Beveled edges help to reduce tripping issues, and 3/4" commercial-grade thickness provides hours of comfort and stability. Durable materials of this desk mat will not break down, even after years of use.
