Mat Matters

Why is knowing the difference between switchboard and ESD matting so important?

There’s an all-too-common misconception that all mats designed to reduce some kind of shock have the same properties. Both ESD (conductive matting) and switchboard matting (non-conductive matting) reduce shock, but they’re on completely opposite sides of the spectrum. It’s critical that users know the difference because it could save not only work projects but more importantly, lives. This is one matting decision that needs to be taken seriously.

Anyone that knows a Welder, can appreciate the rigors of the job. Not only is the work hard, but Welders are working on hard, unforgiving concrete. Wearwell’s professional welding mats offer the highest in fatigue-fighting support that comes from the proprietary Nitricell sponge base. Find out more about fighting fatigue with WeldSafe® floor mats from Wearwell®.

When leg muscles are active, they promote circulation through what is referred to as muscle pump. When muscles move, they compress the veins, pushing blood towards the heart and against the force of gravity. When muscles don’t move, the veins remain open, and gravity allows the blood to pool in the lowest parts of the body. This causes swelling, which is known as edema. Edema is not only uncomfortable, but it can also restrict blood flow and cause other health problems.

For modular rubber mats, there are 2 types of interlocking systems: passive and positive connections. Passive connection systems have been around for decades. And for decades users have come to expect, and live, with the failures. But the frustrated, don’t have to be frustrated anymore! With 24/Seven LockSafe that features a positive connection system, lost time, high costs, unsafe work conditions are a thing of the past!

MATSonline sells several Wearwell products that meet and exceed the NFSI certification standards. Look for the NFSI logo on select ergonomic flooring and anti-fatigue matting solutions, all designed to keep workers safe and protected, healthier and more productive.

As shoe sanitizing mats become more popular, more questions arise about proper use. It seems easy enough, you place your mat, pour in a sanitizing solution, walk through and you’re all sanitized! While this is ideal, there are many other factors that come into play with shoe sanitizing mats.

Anti-fatigue matting is the most overlooked and underestimated health and safety solution. Although matting and flooring isn’t mandated by OSHA like PPE, it doesn’t make the need for it any less critical. Find out how anti-fatigue and ergonomic floor surfaces are proven to increase safety, health, productivity, and performance for standing workers.

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are excruciatingly painful and often debilitating for those affected. They are the leading cause of workplace absenteeism, lost productivity, and increased medical, disability, and workers' compensation costs making them extremely expensive for employers.

Slips and falls – something you don’t think about, but looking back you should have known it would happen.

Life gets hectic at work with time management challenges and deadlines. It’s easy to lose focus. When workers get into a groove at work, autopilot takes over. Being mindful of the work environment can prevent costly slips and trips from happening. After all, one misstep can create lifelong pain, and most of the time it could have been prevented!

The movie “Tommy Boy” famously talks about the importance and meaning of product guarantees. To paraphrase nicely, “a warranty is only as good as the company or individuals standing behind it.” Unfortunately not all anti-fatigue matting and ergonomic flooring manufacturers see the same value.