In Australia’s industrial sectors — from mining and oil & gas to production floors and engineering workshops — anti-fatigue mats play a vital role in workplace safety. They ease strain from long hours of standing, reduce fatigue-related injuries, and help prevent slips.
But here’s the catch: the wrong mat, or a poorly maintained one, can become a hazard itself. Below are five of the common anti-fatigue mat hazards in the workplace, along with how to avoid them:
1.Tripping Hazards from Poor Edge Design
Hazard: Mats without bevelled edges, or those that curl up over time, become major trip risks in high-traffic areas.
Solution: Choose mats with durable bevelled edges and visible borders. Inspect frequently for curling or wear. Work Well Mats’ Engineers Mat offers large 50 mm bevelled edges, while the Euro-Mat provides black or yellow border options for visibility.
Wrong investment risk: Cheap mats with thin or non-reinforced edges often curl quickly, increasing the likelihood of falls.
2. Slips from Oils, Grease, and Wet Floors
Hazard: In mining and oil facilities, wet or greasy surfaces can turn standard mats into slip zones.
Solution: Use oil- and grease-resistant mats with textured or dimpled surfaces, or drainage designs for wet zones. The Ultra-Grip mat from Work Well Mats is built with a grease-resistant nitrile/SBR compound and a dimpled underside for traction.
Wrong investment risk: A general-purpose rubber mat may absorb oils, lose grip, and wear out prematurely, creating a bigger hazard.
3. Poor Coverage or Wrong Size
Hazard: A mat that doesn’t fully cover the standing zone leaves workers half on and half off — leading to discomfort, awkward footing, and uneven support.
Solution: Select modular or custom-fit mats that cover entire workstations or production lines. Most anti-fatigue mats are available in custom sizes and runner formats to suit irregular layouts.
Wrong investment risk: Buying only small standard mats creates gaps in coverage, undermining both comfort and safety.
4. Using the Wrong Mat for the Job
Hazard: A mat that isn’t built for its environment (e.g. welding sparks, abrasive dust, or heavy loads) will degrade quickly — losing cushioning or grip.
Solution: Match mats to specific site conditions such as heat, chemicals, or heavy traffic.
Wrong investment risk: Selecting “all-purpose” mats for extreme environments results in fast breakdown, wasted spend, and higher safety risks.
5. Worn-Out Mats Still in Use
Hazard: Over time, mats lose cushioning, edges crack, and surfaces wear smooth. A worn-out mat no longer prevents fatigue or slips.
Solution: Regular inspections and planned replacement cycles are essential to maintain safety performance. Heavy-duty mats, for example, are built for durability, but even they should be replaced when signs of wear appear.
Wrong investment risk: Extending the life of mats far beyond their service cycle may seem cost-saving but often leads to higher costs from injuries or downtime.
By carefully selecting, maintaining, and replacing mats fit for their environment, companies can protect their workforce and avoid costly incidents.