Safety Matting Explained: Anti-Static, Electrical & Anti-Slip Floor Mats

It’s easy for workplaces to overlook the importance of safety matting. However, these accessories are some of the most effective tools for preventing workplace accidents.

To help you make an informed decision for your unique workplace, we’ve put together a guide covering the most popular types of safety matting, their features, and how they can benefit your workforce.

1.    Anti-static matting

Anti-static matting, also known as ESD (electrostatic discharge) matting, is engineered to safely dispel charges of static electricity. These specialist protective mats can prevent electrostatic build-up, which can damage electronics or even ignite flammable vapours in the correct environment.

Where is anti-static matting commonly used?

Thanks to their specialist properties, anti-static matting solutions are most commonly found in the following workplace settings:

• Electronics assembly and manufacturing
• IT
• Telecoms
• Laboratories and clean rooms
• Data centres

Our Ultra Plus Mat provides <2kV charge dissipation and has been expertly designed to meet industry standards for equipment protection and operator safety. 

2.    Electrical insulation matting and safety mats

Electrical insulation mats have a slightly different purpose from anti-static mats. They are designed to insulate rather than dissipate, and essentially act as a protective barrier against electrical shock by preventing current transfer. 

Where is electrical insulation matting commonly used?

Electrical safety mats are certified for use around high-voltage equipment, and are most beneficial in areas where staff are exposed to live circuits within the working day. For this reason, you are most likely to find electrical insulation matting in:

• Switchgear rooms
• Utility and energy facilities
• Engineering workshops
• Automotive facilities

3.    Anti-slip floor matting

According to the HSE, slips, trips, and falls account for 17-31% of all non-fatal workplace injuries, and are the single most common cause of major injuries in UK workplaces. With this in mind, anti-slip matting is one of the most worthwhile safety investments a workplace can make.

Anti-slip mats are made using high-traction materials that are designed to improve grip in both wet and dry weather conditions. At phs, you’ll find Workplace Office Mats made from durable ECONYL, a regenerated nylon designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and stop excess moisture in its tracks.

Where is anti-slip flooring commonly used?

Anti-slip flooring solutions are most commonly used in commercial entrances, kitchens, manufacturing zones, retail units, and offices, helping businesses to meet health and safety compliance as well as employee comfort standards. 

The phs Slip Safety Testing Service

We proudly offer a Slip Safety Testing Service using HSE-approved pendulum testing. This comprehensive service also includes full reporting and analysis along with safety recommendations, so you can ensure that your flooring stays as safe and compliant as possible.

4.    Anti-fatigue floor matting

Anti-fatigue mats are specifically designed to reduce the physical strain on staff who have to stand for long periods of time throughout the working day. These types of mats are expertly engineered to improve user comfort as well as productivity. 

Where is anti-fatigue matting commonly found?

Due to their ability to prevent musculoskeletal strain, ant-fatigue mats are most popular within the following settings:

• Manufacturing and assembly lines
• Retail counters
• Hospitality and catering facilities
• Warehouses

Specialist anti-fatigue mats from phs

At phs, we understand how important comfort is for workplace compliance and employee satisfaction. With this in mind, we offer a variety of premium, fitted, and non-slip anti-fatigue mats to suit the needs of any premises. 

For full peace of mind, we can also offer workplaces detailed, court-ready reports on the effectiveness of our anti-fatigue matting solutions.