Safe-Flex vs COBA Deckplate: Which Anti-Fatigue Mat Is Right for You?
Two popular anti-fatigue matting options with different approaches. Safe-Flex offers UK-made modular flexibility while COBA Deckplate provides an established individual mat solution. Here's how they compare.
Specification Comparison
| Specification | Safe-Flex | COBA Deckplate |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% recycled PVC | PVC/nitrile rubber blend |
| Manufacturing | UK (West Midlands) | European |
| System Type | Modular interlocking | Individual mats/rolls |
| Thickness | 16mm | 15mm |
| Slip Rating | R13 | R10 |
| Surface Pattern | Diamond tread | Diamond plate pattern |
| ESD Options | Available (IEC 61340) | Available |
| Fire Rating | Certified | Certified |
| Free Samples | Yes (1 working day) | Through distributors |
| RAMS Included | Yes | On request |
About Safe-Flex
Safe-Flex is a modular anti-fatigue matting system manufactured by Ergo Advantage in the West Midlands, UK. Made from 100% recycled PVC compound, it combines sustainability credentials with robust industrial performance.
The interlocking tile system allows coverage of any floor area without adhesives. Tiles connect securely and can be reconfigured or extended as workspace layouts change. This makes Safe-Flex particularly cost-effective for businesses that regularly modify their production areas.
Available in three sizes — Standard (112×112cm), Extended (158×112cm), and Maximum (249×112cm) — Safe-Flex accommodates different workstation configurations. The 16mm thickness and R13 slip rating provide excellent fatigue relief and safety performance.
Safe-Flex Advantages
- ✓ UK manufactured with full traceability
- ✓ 100% recycled PVC — meets sustainability targets
- ✓ Modular system — no adhesives, easy reconfiguration
- ✓ R13 slip rating — superior to Deckplate's R10
- ✓ Free samples dispatched within 1 working day
- ✓ RAMS documentation included with every order
Safe-Flex Considerations
- ✗ Modular system may be over-specified for single mat needs
- ✗ Fixed tile sizes (not available in custom dimensions)
About COBA Deckplate
COBA Deckplate is an established anti-fatigue mat from COBA Europe, one of the UK's longest-standing industrial matting manufacturers. It features the classic diamond plate surface pattern that's become synonymous with industrial flooring.
Made from a PVC/nitrile rubber blend, Deckplate offers good resistance to oils and chemicals commonly found in manufacturing environments. The 15mm thickness provides cushioning for workers standing for extended periods.
Deckplate is available as individual mats in various sizes or in roll format for larger installations. The individual mat approach works well for defined workstations, though covering larger areas may require adhesive bonding or accepting gaps between mats.
COBA Deckplate Advantages
- ✓ Established product with long track record
- ✓ Available in roll format for large areas
- ✓ Good oil and chemical resistance
- ✓ Wide distribution network
- ✓ Various size options available
COBA Deckplate Considerations
- ✗ Lower slip rating (R10 vs Safe-Flex R13)
- ✗ Individual mats don't interlock — may shift or create gaps
- ✗ Not UK manufactured
- ✗ Not made from recycled materials
When to Choose Each Product
Choose Safe-Flex if you need:
- → UK-manufactured product with sustainability credentials
- → Higher slip resistance (R13 rating)
- → Flexible coverage that can be reconfigured
- → Installation without adhesives
- → RAMS documentation for compliance
- → Free CAD layout support
Choose COBA Deckplate if you need:
- → Single mats for defined workstations
- → Roll matting for permanent installations
- → Existing relationship with COBA distributors
- → Matching existing Deckplate installations
- → Standard anti-fatigue performance
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Safe-Flex and COBA Deckplate?
The main differences are the system type and material. Safe-Flex uses a modular interlocking system allowing flexible coverage of any area without adhesives, while COBA Deckplate comes as individual mats or rolls. Safe-Flex is made from 100% recycled PVC in the UK, while Deckplate uses a PVC/nitrile rubber blend manufactured in Europe.
Which has better slip resistance — Safe-Flex or Deckplate?
Safe-Flex has a higher slip rating at R13 compared to COBA Deckplate's R10 rating. Both provide good slip resistance for industrial environments, but Safe-Flex offers superior grip particularly in areas where oils or liquids may be present.
Can Safe-Flex replace existing COBA Deckplate installations?
Yes, Safe-Flex can replace Deckplate installations. The modular interlocking system makes it straightforward to cover existing floor areas without adhesives. Safe-Flex's slightly greater thickness (16mm vs 15mm) provides similar or improved fatigue relief, and the R13 slip rating exceeds Deckplate's R10.
Which is better for wet environments?
Both products handle wet environments well, but Safe-Flex's higher R13 slip rating makes it the safer choice where water, oils, or other liquids are present. The modular drainage design also allows liquids to pass through, keeping the walking surface drier.
Is Safe-Flex more expensive than COBA Deckplate?
Pricing varies depending on quantity and configuration. Safe-Flex's modular system can be more cost-effective for irregular areas since you only cover what you need without cutting waste. For a direct comparison, request a free Safe-Flex sample and quote to compare against your Deckplate pricing.
Try Safe-Flex Before You Buy
Request free samples to compare Safe-Flex directly with your current matting. Dispatched within 1 working day from our West Midlands facility.