Keeping a factory safe and comfortable for workers is necessary for maintaining and improving productivity. In factories, adding floor mats in various areas is one excellent way to achieve this goal.
On the other hand, there are crucial considerations to make when choosing floor mats for your factory. You need to create a checklist of functions you’re looking for and determine the locations that need specific types of floor mats.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on choosing floor mats for your factory.
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Prioritize High Durability
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High durability should always be prioritized for two main reasons: worker safety and maximizing the functionality of the floor mats. Factories are environments with frequent foot traffic and heavy equipment, so it’s best to choose floor mats that are resilient to wear and tear.
Industrial grade floor mats are often made with rubber and plastic. These materials are manufactured to make mats resist tension and allow exposure to chemicals and varying temperatures. There are also specific materials used for resisting particular chemicals and other elements handled in the factory.
Meanwhile, searching for reliable floor mat manufacturers can be challenging in some regions. If you’re in the UK, you may check out these high-quality matting supplies that use only industrial-grade materials.
2. Specify Uses And Setting
There are different types of industrial floor mats. Each type has specific functions meant to be used in particular working environments. Thus, specifying the use and setting of the floor mats is critical when choosing floor mats for your factory.
Some of the most common industrial mats are the following:
- Traction Mats
Traction mats are used in settings with vehicles like forklifts. This mat creates friction to make the floor rugged to prevent slipping.
- Anti-Static Mats
Anti-static mats prevent the buildup of static electricity. It’s perfect for areas prone to dry air and factories for garment manufacturing, especially those that use leather and fur.
- Drainage Mats
Drainage mats are used in wet areas and are connected to a drainage system. They’re ideal for sections with frequent liquid exposure, such as the washrooms.
- Scraper Mats
Scraper mats effectively remove dust and dirt from workers’ shoes and boots as they enter the facility. Manufacturing plants in various industries must always prioritize hygiene, and scraper mats provide a quick and efficient solution.
- Non-Conductive Mats
Non-conductive mats are suitable for areas dealing with high voltage of electricity. These mats protect the workers from electric shocks coming from the machines. They provide insulation as they absorb the electricity the equipment emits, keeping workers safe.
- Anti-Fatigue Mats
Anti-fatigue mats serve as a cushion for workers’ feet. It’s ideal for areas with frequent foot traffic and walkways where workers carry heavy items.
- Anti-Static Mats
Anti-static mats work like the non-conductive type. They absorb static electricity to lessen or eliminate its effect on workers and machines.
- Sanitary Mats
Sanitary mats, like scraper mats, remove dust and dirt from workers’ shoes. However, these mats can also remove other contaminants to keep the facility safe.
3. Look For Anti-Slip Features
Floor mats for industrial and commercial use are anti-slip. However, they differ in traction levels depending on the materials used, thickness, and surface texture.
In general, rubber floor mats with more rugged surfaces create stronger friction. Ribbed surfaces are suitable for areas exposed to moisture and liquid. However, you can also use them for areas that need traction.
On the other hand, floor mats made of PVC and vinyl create less traction. Their anti-slip properties rely more on the surface texture than the material itself. In addition, they’re only ideal for dry areas.
4. Determine Temperature And Moisture Levels
Industrial floor mat manufacturers follow specific standards for their products and their intended functions. As mentioned earlier, there are particular mat types suited for each area of your factory to ensure workers’ safety. Hence, determining the temperature and moisture levels helps you choose the most suitable floor mats for your factory.
For instance, sections exposed to high moisture are prone to slip and skid, so the ideal floor mat should be high-traction. In contrast, areas with extremely cold and dry air require anti-static floor mats to prevent electric shocks.
Aside from temperature and moisture, you also need to consider the chemicals handled in your factory. Some floor mat materials may react to specific chemicals and release harmful compounds. To avoid this problem, tell the manufacturer or supplier about all the materials and chemicals you work with when you place your order.
5. Consider Sound And Temperature Insulation
Floor mats also serve as temperature and sound insulation. Factories can be busy and loud due to the simultaneous use of machines and frequent foot traffic, so adding insulation is a must. Moreover, adding a rubber floor mat helps reduce noise for factories with metal flooring and staircases. Plus, it also adds a safety feature to prevent accidents at work.
Furthermore, some mats serve as temperature insulation. In some areas, the floor can get cold, especially during winter. As a solution, you can install heated floor mats with heating coils to keep your workers comfortable and safe.
Conclusion
Choosing the most suitable floor mats for your factory can be trickier depending on the nature of production. However, considering all the crucial factors can help ease the process.