The Mat: Categories and Types

The Mat comes in various kinds or types according to its usage. This article will help you identify all of your matting needs. Descriptions and examples are also given for your convenience.

The mat's different categories are:

DOORMAT - it is a flat, usually rectangular object placed immediately outside or inside the entrance to a house, buildings/offices to reduce maintenance costs and the risks of slip and fall injuries. It is also designed to scrape dirt, debris and moisture away and stop these elements from entering your house/building.

ANTI-FATIGUE MAT - designed to minimize back pain, foot pain, weariness, stress, etc., when the work of a person requires standing for a long time on hard floor surface. It is one of the approaches to prevent injuries, caused by working in a standing position. This type of mats is recommended by Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It is designed with comfort and durability in mind. Some anti-fatigue mats incorporate several important safety factors, such as non-skid surfaces to prevent slips in wet/greasy areas, colored safety borders to improve visibility in work areas and beveled edges to prevent tripping and allow easy cart access.

ANTI-STATIC MAT - is one of a number of anti-static devices designed to help eliminate static electricity. It has a conductive material embedded within the mat that collects the static. The mat would need to be grounded (earthed). This is usually accomplished by plugging into the grounded line in an electrical outlet.

CHILDREN'S PLAYMAT - soft foam, cushioned mats designed to protect kids in play areas, at the same time makes their playtime fun and educational

CLEAN ROOM MAT - especially designed for sensitive areas where dirt, contamination, and bacteria can be a serious hazard. It attracts and traps dirt, have anti-microbial properties that prevent germs & bacteria from building up

EXERCISE MAT - designed to reduce aerobic impact, provide cushion and protect the floors. It eliminates vibration and stop carpet fibers from getting into the moving parts of the exercise equipment. It is a cellular vinyl exercise mat that creates a soft yet durable pad for the exercise equipment to rest on. It can be used as a general fitness mat, yoga mat, pilates mat or aerobic mat.

HOME/RESIDENTIAL MAT - these includes a variety of mats depending on its usage around the home or housing complexes like condominiums, apartments and housing communities.

INDUSTRIAL MATS - designed for specific applications in industrial and commercial facilities to promote safety, prevent accidents and to improve work conditions.

LAB & MEDICAL MATS - a special type of anti-fatigue mat that improves the working environment for jobs that demand prolonged standing. It provides safer traction and facilitates better performance and productivity. It is designed with a beveled edge to reduce tripping hazards, also for easy cleaning and sanitation, and is resistant to chemicals.