An employee who stands for long periods of time often develops aches and pains in the back, neck, legs or feet. Changes in job procedures may alleviat
Anti-fatigue mats may be a simple yet effective solution. These soft, slip-resistant, durable polymer mats provide a cushion for workers to stand on. Anti-fatigue mats can also help you keep your floors clean and dry, as well as provide many ergonomic benefits for workers. But how exactly does it help to stand on a softer surface?
Cement vs. anti-fatigue mat
Softer surfaces are better for standing just as they are for sleeping. Soft surfaces decrease the shock, stress and pressure on feet and joints. Hard surfaces like cement don’t absorb shock.
More movement
Extended standing on a hard surface leads to an immobile standing pattern, causing stiffness and poor circulation. The softness of anti-fatigue mats requires workers to shift positions more frequently and encourages subtle leg and calf muscle movements, which increase blood and oxygen flow and, in turn, reduce fatigue.
Less pain
Pain and discomfort from extended standing on a hard surface can exhaust a worker and cause irritability. Obviously, it’s not ideal for a tired, cranky worker to operate machinery or handle hazardous chemicals. Anti-fatigue mats may help workers stay energetic and alert.
Better posture
A worker in pain from standing may try various positions to gain relief. A worker with back pain may work slightly bent over; a worker with leg pain may stand only on the leg that isn’t sore. These measures may just make things worse. Anti-fatigue mats may be able to help.
Benefits and beyond
Anti-fatigue mats may not only alleviate aches and pains but also provide slip resistance. Because slips, trips, and falls can cause sprains, strains, and even fatalities, it’s easy to see the importance of preventing them.
There’s also the matter of productivity. You can minimise lost time and worker compensation costs by preventing injuries and pain due to prolonged standing.
Find out more:
New pig provide a comprehensive range of Anti-fatigue Mats from our online shop. Or why not give us a call on 0800 919 900.
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