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Anti-Fatigue mats are designed to reduce fatigue that is caused by standing
for long periods on hard surface (e.g., cement floors). Fatigue-reducing mats
can be made of various materials including rubber, carpeting materials, vinyl,
and wood.
When considering the use of anti-fatigue mats, there are other factors that
should be considered at the same time, such as allowing changes in
working/standing position, footwear, and flooring.
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Changes in working/standing position: Work
should be organized so that the worker has some choice about his/her working
position and an opportunity to change position frequently. A workplace that
includes an optional seat (chair, sit/stand stool) and some kind of footrest
increases the variety of body positions and encourages frequent changes
between them.
Footwear: Footwear is a factor which, if
properly chosen, may further reduce the harmful effects of prolonged
standing. There is no doubt that the choice of footwear is an important
consideration for people who work on their feet. Shoes should ensure
adequate arch and heel support and cushioning while providing comfort to the
wearer.
Flooring: The type of flooring used in the
workplace has an equally important influence on comfort, especially on
tender feet. Hard, unyielding floors, like concrete, are the least
comfortable surface to work on. Walking on a hard floor is similar to the
impact of a hammer pounding the heel at every step. Wood, cork, carpeting,
or rubber - anything that provides some elasticity - is gentler on workers'
feet. More than that, softer floor coverings reduce fatigue and improve
safety by reducing slips and falls on slippery floors.
When should anti-fatigue mats be
used?
Anti-fatigue mats absorb the shock due to walking and this
cushioning effect reduces foot fatigue. However, the use of matting requires
caution because mats can lead to tripping and falling accidents when installed
improperly.
Help keep your employees comfortable by contacting us and purchasing your anti-fatigue mat today.