How to Select Electrical Mats

An electrical floor mat or Electro-Static Discharge (ESD)  mat is an essential element in a static protected work area. These mats are designed to eliminate static on their surface while providing comfort and a non-slip work surface.  When static is not adequately controlled, it can build up and cause unpleasant shocks to employees and damage to sensitive devices and electrical components. Thankfully, electrical mats offer a long-term solution for a shock-free workstation while working with live equipment.

Electrical floor mats differ from standard mats due to the conductive material embedded within the mat that draws in all the static and sends it to the ground. These mats are predominantly used when employees work near HT/LT control panels, electrical substations, transformers,  or any live electrical equipment. 

Other ESD mats,  such as switchboard matting, are made from a non-conductive PVC compound designed to prevent the worker from being grounded. This action eliminates the possibility of electrical shock to the worker while serving high voltage boxes, electrical fuse boxes and transformers. 

ESD mats can help prevent an unwarranted accident. Choosing an electrical mat depends on the specific application, such as mat material and electrical properties, and your workplace's size and environment.  At NoTrax, we carry various electrical mats, and choosing the right type of mat for your business is essential to get the full benefits they have to offer. Whatever your needs, we have the best electrical mat for your workplace.

Where Will You Use This Mat?

The work environment conditions will determine the type of electrical mat that is best suited for your facility. Mats are available in different styles, sizes and properties. Also, not all electrical floor mats have the same Electro Static Discharge (ESD) properties. However, no matter which electrical mat you choose, NoTrax Mats are designed to function well in their intended environment.

Our laminate mats integrate REDSTOP™ technology to eliminate mat sliding on dry floors and are certified by the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), which independently tests and certifies our products.

Our electrical mats will work in a variety of conditions. Here are some common workplace environment descriptions to help you determine which mat is right for you.

Most indoor work environments are dry. However, dry surfaces are subjected to slip hazards when dirt and debris accumulate on the surface.  Electrical mats are thicker than other mats and provide a cushioned surface that protects the employees from electrical voltage. They also provide a non-slip and anti-fatigue layer for the employee to stand on.

For workers who must perform electrical work in areas subjected to liquid overspray or debris, an electrical mat with drainage holes and a non-slip surface is necessary.

The amount of floor activity in the area also determines which type of electrical mat to use. Mats should be durable, easy to clean, offer support and comfort to the employees and have ESD properties if needed. The foot traffic can affect a mat's longevity over time. Consider these usage levels to help determine what level electrical mat is right for your facility.

• Light Traffic mats are thinner and designed for light foot traffic in an area. These mats provide support and comfort for areas that receive relatively low activity.
• Medium Traffic mats can stand up to multiple employees and visitors' foot traffic and even lightweight equipment such as a light work cart or hand dolly wheels. These mats offer generous anti-fatigue support.
• Heavy Traffic mats are the thickest available and are suitable for environments that receive many people and movement throughout the day. These mats are made from durable materials that will hold up well under rough conditions and offer exceptional anti-fatigue support. 

Do You Need a Custom Mat?

Most facilities and workspaces can use standard mat sizes. However, if parts of your facility have unique layouts, a traditional mat won't work. Fortunately, here at NoTrax, we carry a wide range of mat sizes and offer custom sizes upon request. Our electrical mat options include:

• Stock Sizes. Our inventory of standard entrance mat sizes may be suitable for your needs. Stock mats are prefabricated and are available in several sizes, patterns, materials and colors. 
• Custom Length. If standard-sized mats don't work in your facility, we can cut a roll to fit your space's exact specifications.
• Interlocking Mat Tiles. Modular mats are perfect for irregular workspaces because they can be arranged in various configurations.

Understand the Specifics (Glossary)

We use industry-specific terms to describe our products and understand that some of the words can be confusing. Here's a glossary to help you understand the terminology and find the perfect electrical mat for your facility.   

Materials

• Natural rubber is a durable material that provides excellent traction. Rubber mats often have surface ridges or textures that aid in scrubbing/wiping the bottoms of shoes while providing a slip-free surface. Rubber floor mats work well in high-traffic areas.
• Nitrile rubber is a type of synthetic rubber polymer with excellent oil and temperature resistance. It also features flexibility and elasticity to provide comfort for long hours of standing. 
• Vinyl or PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a synthetic compound that is durable and resistant to moisture. Due to their affordability and versatility, PVC mats are a popular choice for floor matting types. PVC is not suitable for extremely cold environments.

Patterns

• Diamond patterns feature raise ridges for added traction and are easy to sweep clean.
• Pebble Grain features a non-directional pebble textured embossed design that maximizes worker comfort while providing an anti-slip surface.
• Bubble/Domed patterned mats increase traction while providing comfort and support with their ergonomic bubble pattern.
• Smooth Surface mats do not feature any raised patterns. These mats are easy to sweep or mop clean. 

If you have questions about selecting other types of matting, visit our Floor Matting Buyer’s Guide, or for mats for specific locations, see our Guide to Mats By Area.