Buyer's guide
Best Anti-Fatigue Mats for Factories in 2026
Factory workers standing for 8+ hours a day face significant fatigue and musculoskeletal strain. The right anti-fatigue matting reduces discomfort, improves productivity, and lowers injury risk. This guide compares the top options available in the UK for manufacturing environments.
Top 5 anti-fatigue mats for factories
Comparing the leading anti-fatigue matting products suitable for UK manufacturing environments.
| Product | Brand | Material | Slip Rating | ESD | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Safe-Flex Modular | Ergo Advantage | 100% recycled PVC | R13 | Optional | Mid-range | Flexible layouts, sustainability |
| Fatigue-Step | COBA Europe | Nitrile rubber / PVC | R10 | Separate product | Mid-range | Large continuous areas |
| Cushion-Ease | Notrax | Nitrile rubber | Varies | Optional | Premium | Heavy-duty premium |
| Bubblemat | COBA Europe | Nitrile rubber | R10 | No | Budget-Mid | Light-medium duty |
| Orthomat | COBA Europe | PVC foam | R10 | No | Budget | Budget installations |
Our top picks explained
Safe-Flex Modular System
Ergo Advantage
Safe-Flex is our top recommendation for UK factories due to its combination of performance, sustainability, and flexibility. Manufactured in the West Midlands from 100% recycled PVC, it delivers on environmental targets while providing effective fatigue relief for standing workers.
The modular interlocking system installs without adhesive, making it ideal for factories that reconfigure production lines or need to relocate workstations. Three tile sizes (112×112cm, 158×112cm, 249×112cm) reduce joints and installation time. ESD and fire-resistant variants use the same interlocking system.
Pros:
- ✓ 100% recycled PVC—meets sustainability KPIs
- ✓ R13 slip rating—highest in this comparison
- ✓ UK manufactured with fast sample dispatch
- ✓ RAMS documentation included with orders
- ✓ Reconfigurable—no adhesive required
Cons:
- ✗ Tiles only—no roll format
- ✗ Smaller brand than COBA or Notrax
Best for: Factories prioritising sustainability, flexible layouts, or ESD requirements within a single system.
Request free Safe-Flex samplesCOBA Fatigue-Step
COBA Europe
Fatigue-Step is a well-established product from COBA Europe, available in both tile and roll formats. The roll option makes it suitable for covering large continuous areas quickly, such as long assembly lines or packing stations.
Pros:
- ✓ Roll format covers large areas fast
- ✓ Established COBA brand
- ✓ Wide UK distribution
Cons:
- ✗ Lower slip rating (R10)
- ✗ May require adhesive
- ✗ ESD requires separate product
Best for: Large continuous factory areas, permanent installations, existing COBA customers.
Visit COBA EuropeNotrax Cushion-Ease
Notrax / Justrite
Cushion-Ease is Notrax's premium modular anti-fatigue system, constructed from nitrile rubber for maximum durability and oil resistance. At 19mm thick, it provides substantial cushioning for demanding factory environments.
Pros:
- ✓ Premium nitrile rubber construction
- ✓ 19mm thickness
- ✓ Excellent oil resistance
Cons:
- ✗ Premium pricing
- ✗ US manufacturing—longer lead times
- ✗ Smaller tile size (91×91cm)
Best for: Premium installations, heavy-duty environments, oil/chemical exposure.
Visit Notrax EUCOBA Bubblemat
COBA Europe
Bubblemat is a popular entry-level anti-fatigue mat with a distinctive bubble surface pattern. It's suitable for light to medium-duty factory applications where workers stand for moderate periods.
Pros:
- ✓ Affordable pricing
- ✓ Well-known product
- ✓ Good for moderate standing
Cons:
- ✗ Not for heavy-duty use
- ✗ No ESD option
Best for: Light industrial, packing areas, quality inspection stations.
COBA Orthomat
COBA Europe
Orthomat is COBA's entry-level PVC foam anti-fatigue mat. It provides basic fatigue relief at the lowest price point, making it suitable for budget-conscious installations or trial deployments.
Pros:
- ✓ Lowest price point
- ✓ Good for trials
Cons:
- ✗ Shorter lifespan
- ✗ Less cushioning than premium options
- ✗ No ESD or fire-resistant options
Best for: Budget installations, short-term use, trial deployments before investing in premium matting.
What to look for in factory anti-fatigue mats
Thickness & Density
For prolonged standing (4+ hours), choose mats at least 12mm thick. However, thickness alone isn't everything—material density affects how well the mat maintains cushioning over time. Premium rubber compounds hold up better than basic foam.
Slip Rating
Check the R-rating for slip resistance. R10 is standard; R13 (like Safe-Flex) offers enhanced grip for environments with oils or liquids. Factory floors are high-traffic, so adequate slip resistance is essential for safety.
Chemical Resistance
Consider what substances the mats will contact. Nitrile rubber excels with oils and hydrocarbons. PVC handles a broad range of chemicals. Check compatibility with specific coolants, solvents, or cleaning agents used in your facility.
Installation Method
Modular interlocking systems (Safe-Flex, Cushion-Ease) require no adhesive and can be reconfigured. Roll matting covers large areas quickly but may need adhesive for permanent installation. Consider future flexibility needs.
ESD Requirements
Electronics assembly, PCB handling, or any ESD-sensitive processes require IEC 61340 compliant matting. Safe-Flex offers ESD variants within the same system; other brands may require separate product lines.
Sustainability
For ISO 14001 certified facilities or those with sustainability targets, consider recycled content. Safe-Flex uses 100% recycled PVC; other products vary. UK manufacturing also reduces transport emissions.
How we evaluated
Our testing methodology
Our recommendations are based on hands-on evaluation of products, analysis of manufacturer specifications, and feedback from UK factories using these products. We consider:
- ✓ Published specifications and certifications
- ✓ Material composition and construction
- ✓ UK availability and lead times
- ✓ Price-to-performance ratio
- ✓ Sustainability credentials
- ✓ Customer feedback and reviews
FAQ
Factory anti-fatigue mats: Common questions
What is the best anti-fatigue mat for factory workers?
The best anti-fatigue mat depends on your specific requirements. For most UK factories, Safe-Flex modular matting offers the best balance of performance, sustainability (100% recycled PVC), and flexibility. For premium installations, Notrax Cushion-Ease is widely specified. For budget-conscious projects, COBA Orthomat provides basic fatigue relief at lower cost.
How thick should anti-fatigue mats be for factory use?
For factory environments where workers stand for extended periods (4+ hours), mats should be at least 12mm thick. Safe-Flex is 16mm, Notrax Cushion-Ease is 19mm. Thicker mats generally provide better cushioning, but material density and construction also affect comfort. Avoid mats under 10mm for prolonged standing.
Do factory anti-fatigue mats need to be fire resistant?
Fire resistance requirements depend on your risk assessment and industry. Manufacturing environments with welding, grinding, or hot works should use fire-resistant or spark-proof matting. Safe-Flex offers fire-resistant variants within the same interlocking system. Check your insurance requirements and consult your fire safety officer.
Can anti-fatigue mats be used with forklifts?
Standard anti-fatigue mats are not designed for forklift traffic and may be damaged or displaced. For areas with both pedestrian and forklift use, consider edge ramps and ensure mats are secured. Some modular systems like Safe-Flex can handle occasional light traffic but are primarily designed for standing workstations.
How do I clean anti-fatigue mats in a factory?
Most industrial anti-fatigue mats can be cleaned with a pressure washer, floor scrubber, or simply swept and mopped. PVC mats like Safe-Flex resist oils and chemicals, making cleaning easier. Modular tiles can be lifted for deep cleaning beneath. Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on your environment's contamination levels.
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