A mats is a flat piece of material placed on a floor or other surface. It serves a variety of functions including providing a regular or flat surface and protecting that which is below it.
They can also be used to change the state of that which passes above them, such as a doormat attracting dirt from shoes. However, when used improperly, mats can pose a slip and fall hazard.
Origin
Mats are portable floor coverings that have been around for thousands of years. Archaeologists believe that the earliest portable floor coverings were made as far back as 25,000 years ago in Paleolithic times! The dwellings of clans used tree bark to create a type of felt which was then made into floor mats.
As humans evolved, they worked hard to improve their internal living environment and started making things like clothing, baskets, and other items that could be used as a bed or a sleeping pad. Not long after, they developed a practice of weaving to make certain goods.
Finely woven mats are important cultural items for everyday and ceremonial use, including weddings, funerals, and family gatherings. They are often made of beaten barkcloth fabric, which is called tapa in various regions. It is often beat and embroidered with design elements.
Function
Floor mats are used in a variety of facilities to prevent slips and falls from wet or slippery surfaces. They also help to improve footing in lobbies, hallways and corridors.
Grease, oil and chemical resistant mats are widely used in industrial environments because of the harsh conditions they can often withstand. Typically, these mats feature cell-blended top cushions, vinyl backing and drain through holes.
Anti-fatigue mats are also used in workplace areas to reduce employee aches and pains caused by standing for long periods of time. They are often custom made and designed to provide support to the feet, legs and back of workers who stand for prolonged periods.
Rubber mats are available in a variety of patterns and thicknesses including corrugations or ribs running lengthwise, crosswise or diagonally. Perforations, basket weave effects and simulated carpet textures are other popular design options. They are used in entrances, passageways and hallways of office buildings, factories, hotels, restaurants and department stores.
Safety
Safety mats are pressure-sensitive safeguarding devices that detect the presence of people or vehicles near hazardous machinery and automatically shut down the machine. They’re ideal for applications where workers need to access hazardous areas without personal risk, such as welding stations, stamping machines, hydraulic presses and packaging equipment.
They’re designed with a four-wire system that connects the mat to a control unit. The conductors are encased in a molded insulating material, usually polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
As with any “safety-rated” device, the design of a safety mat must comply with international standards. This includes redundant circuits and a design that will not allow any single point of failure to render the device inactive, resulting in an unsafe condition.
In addition to STI’s four-wire system, these mats feature a raised “traction dot” surface that minimizes the possibility of slipping. They also feature a two-part ramp trim that provides secure mounting and ease of installation. Blunt trim for placing the mat against a wall and molded corners round out the offering.
Design
Mats come in many different shapes and designs. They can be made from synthetic materials and rubber. They can be ribbed, corrugated or perforated.
They can be used to protect floor surfaces in offices, factories, hotels and restaurants. They also provide a hygienic, slip-resistant and durable surface that is easy to clean.
These mats are available in a variety of thicknesses and patterns, including ribbed, corrugated, raised knobs or basket weave effects. Some have simulated carpet textures.
Choosing a design that is eye-catching and attractive can help to attract visitors. Using a simple logo or graphic can be effective as well.
