
Is the mat easy to clean?
Foam based mats, mats with rough, domed or uneven
surfaces, or mats with through-holes may be difficult to
clean, absorb moisture or trap foreign matter, which leads to
unsanitary and unsightly conditions.
3M Static Control Anti-Fatigue Mats 9900 Series have
a surface that can easily be swept or air vacuumed. Mats
can be cleaned using a neutral cleaner following the simple
procedure outlined in the instruction manual.
Is the mat durable?
The real value of an anti-fatigue solution may be more
apparent when analyzing the number of replacement cycles
that result over a specified time period. Although it may not
be visible to the naked eye, the thin cell walls of foam mats
can rupture and lose their elasticity with use, leading to an
overly soft condition and a mat that easily bottoms out.
Foam can break down, become ragged and generate
particulates over time. Also, mats may be prone to edge
damage because of thin edges or material softness.
Draped top-covers can curl and tear as they become brittle.
Mats with damaged edges create a trip hazard and should be
replaced. The edge system of a mat should be designed to be
durable so it is not easily damaged.
3M Static Control Anti-Fatigue Mats 9900 Series have
been designed to last for many years; to resist edge damage,
tearing and premature failure of its elastic properties. The
mats come with a three year limited warranty.
Summary of optimized mat qualities:
1. Optimized for just the right softness
2. Encourages blood flow in the lower legs
3. Resists bottoming out
4. Provides response to worker movements
5. Balances shock absorption and resilience
6. Gets softer as compressed
7. Resists warping, bunching, and creeping
8. Easy to clean surface
9. Durable structure and edges
References:
The published research of the following scientists was considered in establishing the criteria for these questions:
1. Redfern, M.S. and Chaffin, D.B. (1995) Influence of Flooring on Standing Fatigue, Human Factors, 1995, 37(3) 570-581;
2. King, P.M. (2002) A Comparison of the Effects of Floor Mats and Shoe In-Soles on Standing Fatigue, Applied
Ergonomics 33: 477-484;
3. Cham, R. & Redfern, M.S. (2001) Effect of Flooring on Standing Comfort and Fatigue, Human Factors 43: 381-391;
4. Redfern, M.S. and Cham, R (2000) The Influence of Flooring on Standing Comfort and Fatigue, American Industrial
Hygiene Association Journal 61: 700-708;
5. Brantingham, C.R., Beckman, B.E., Moss, C.N. & Gordon, R.B. (1970) Enhanced Venous Pump Activity as a Result of
Standing on a Variable Terrain Floor, J. Occup. Med. 12(5): 164-169;
6. Krijnen, R.M., et al (1997) Compression Stockings and Rubber Floor Mats, J. Occup. Environ. Med. 39(9): 889-894;
7. Nussbaum, M.A. (2003) Postural Stability is Compromised by Fatiguing Overhead Work, AIHA Journal 64:56-61;
8. Sobel, E., Levitz, S.J., Caselli, M.A., Christos, P.J., and Rosenblum, J. (2001) The Effect of Customized Insoles on the
Reduction of Postwork Discomfort, Am. Podiatr. Med. Assoc. 91(10):515-520;