Complete buyer's guide
Best Anti-Slip Mats UK 2026: Complete Comparison
The definitive guide to anti-slip matting for UK workshops, factories, and industrial environments. We compare slip ratings, materials, and prices to help you find the safest solution for your facility.
Key Takeaways
Best Overall
Safe-Flex Anti-Slip
R13 rating, UK-made, anti-fatigue
Best for Steps/Ramps
COBAGRiP
R13 GRP, extreme grip
Best Oil Resistance
Notrax Diamond Flex
Nitrile rubber, premium
Best for Wet Areas
COBA Workzone W
R11, open-grid drainage
Slips and falls remain one of the most common causes of workplace injury in the UK. According to HSE data, they account for over 30% of reported injuries in manufacturing and logistics. Anti-slip matting is a cost-effective intervention that significantly reduces this risk—but only if you choose the right product for your environment.
The UK market offers anti-slip solutions ranging from basic rubber mats to advanced fibreglass systems with R13 ratings. Prices vary from under £30 per square metre to over £150 for specialist applications. This guide explains what the ratings mean and identifies the best products for different industrial scenarios.
We've evaluated products based on slip resistance, durability, chemical compatibility, and value. Whether you're addressing an audit finding or proactively improving safety, this guide will help you make the right choice.
Understanding slip ratings
What do R-ratings mean?
R-ratings measure slip resistance on inclined, oil-contaminated surfaces according to DIN 51130. The test determines the angle at which a person begins to slip. Higher ratings mean better grip in contaminated conditions.
R9
6-10° angle
Dry areas only
R10
10-19° angle
Light contamination
R11
19-27° angle
Moderate wet/oily
R12
27-35° angle
Heavy wet/oily
R13
35°+ angle
Maximum grip
Note: Most industrial environments with any oil, water, or food contamination should use R11 or higher. R13 is recommended for automotive workshops, food processing, and any area with fats or heavy oils.
Quick comparison: 8 top anti-slip mats
Side-by-side comparison of leading anti-slip matting products available in the UK.
| Product | Brand | Material | Slip Rating | Oil Resistant | Drainage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Safe-Flex Anti-Slip | Ergo Advantage | 100% recycled PVC | R13 | Yes | Solid/Open | Mid-range |
| COBAGRiP | COBA Europe | Fibreglass GRP | R13 | Yes | Solid | Mid-Premium |
| Diamond Flex | Notrax | Nitrile rubber | R10 | Excellent | Solid | Premium |
| Deckplate | COBA Europe | PVC | R10 | Yes | Solid | Mid-range |
| Cobaelite | COBA Europe | Nitrile rubber | R10 | Excellent | Solid | Mid-range |
| Workzone W | COBA Europe | Nitrile rubber | R11 | Yes | Open-grid | Mid-range |
| Cushion-Ease | Notrax | Nitrile rubber | Varies | Yes | Perforated | Premium |
| Safety-Walk | 3M | Mineral aggregate | R13 | Yes | Solid | Premium |
Our top picks in detail
Safe-Flex Anti-Slip
Ergo Advantage • UK Manufactured
Slip rating
R13
Safe-Flex achieves the highest slip rating (R13) while also providing anti-fatigue cushioning—a combination that few competitors match. The 16mm recycled PVC construction handles oils, coolants, and common industrial chemicals while maintaining grip even in contaminated conditions.
The modular interlocking system means no adhesive is required—tiles can be lifted for cleaning or reconfigured as layouts change. For facilities with both slip hazards and standing workers, Safe-Flex eliminates the need to choose between safety and comfort.
UK manufacturing in the West Midlands means responsive support and fast delivery. The 100% recycled PVC content supports sustainability targets, and RAMS documentation is included with every order.
Pros:
- ✓R13 slip rating—highest available
- ✓Combined anti-slip + anti-fatigue
- ✓100% recycled PVC
- ✓UK manufactured
- ✓Modular—no adhesive
- ✓Fire-resistant option available
Cons:
- ✗Not for extreme chemical exposure
- ✗Not for steps/ramps (use COBAGRiP)
Specifications
- Slip Rating
- R13
- Thickness
- 16mm
- Material
- 100% recycled PVC
- Oil Resistant
- Yes
- Anti-Fatigue
- Yes
- Origin
- UK
Verdict: Safe-Flex is the best all-round anti-slip solution for UK facilities. The R13 rating handles the most demanding conditions, while the anti-fatigue properties protect standing workers. Ideal for workshops, factories, and any environment with both slip hazards and prolonged standing.
COBAGRiP
COBA Europe • UK/Europe
Slip rating
R13
COBAGRiP uses fibreglass-reinforced plastic (GRP) with an aggressive anti-slip surface designed for the most extreme slip hazards. This is industrial-grade grip for steps, ramps, pit edges, and access platforms—anywhere falls would have serious consequences.
The aggressive surface provides exceptional traction but is not suitable for standing workstations—it's designed purely for maximum grip in transitional and high-risk zones. Available in sheets, stair nosings, and ladder rung covers.
Pros:
- ✓R13 maximum grip
- ✓GRP—extremely durable
- ✓Ideal for steps and ramps
- ✓Multiple formats available
Cons:
- ✗No cushioning—not for standing
- ✗Aggressive surface—not for bare skin
Notrax Diamond Flex
Notrax / Justrite • USA
Slip rating
R10
Diamond Flex uses nitrile rubber engineered specifically for petroleum-based oil resistance. For automotive workshops with constant engine oil, hydraulic fluid, or fuel exposure, nitrile rubber significantly outperforms PVC. The diamond-plate surface provides reliable traction even when contaminated.
Premium pricing reflects the specialist material and Notrax's 40+ years of brand heritage. For environments where petroleum resistance is critical, the investment is justified.
Pros:
- ✓Superior petroleum oil resistance
- ✓Nitrile rubber durability
- ✓Diamond-plate traction
Cons:
- ✗R10 rating (lower than R13)
- ✗Premium pricing
- ✗US manufacturing—longer lead times
COBA Workzone W
COBA Europe • UK/Europe
Slip rating
R11
Workzone W features an open-grid drainage design that allows water to pass through, keeping the walking surface drier and safer. For food processing, washdown areas, or any environment with constant water, drainage mats are often more effective than solid anti-slip surfaces.
The R11 rating provides enhanced grip in wet conditions. Nitrile rubber construction resists fats, oils, and food acids common in wet processing environments.
Pros:
- ✓Open-grid drainage
- ✓R11 wet-area rating
- ✓Nitrile rubber
Cons:
- ✗Open grid harder to clean
- ✗Less cushioning than solid mats
COBA Deckplate
COBA Europe • UK/Europe
Slip rating
R10
Deckplate is a heavy-duty option with a diamond-plate surface pattern designed for high-traffic areas. It handles heavier loads than standard anti-fatigue mats, making it suitable for walkways, transitional zones, and areas with trolley or light equipment traffic.
Pros:
- ✓Heavy-duty construction
- ✓Handles trolley traffic
- ✓Diamond-plate surface
Cons:
- ✗R10 rating
- ✗Less cushioning
COBA Cobaelite
COBA Europe • UK/Europe
Slip rating
R10
Cobaelite offers nitrile rubber oil resistance at a more accessible price point than Notrax Diamond Flex. For workshops needing oil resistance without premium budgets, it's a solid compromise. The nitrile rubber handles petroleum products well, though durability may not match premium options.
Pros:
- ✓Good oil resistance
- ✓Nitrile rubber
- ✓Mid-range pricing
Cons:
- ✗R10 rating
- ✗Less durable than premium
What to consider when buying anti-slip mats
Match Slip Rating to Contamination Level
Choosing the right R-rating is critical. R10 is only adequate for dry or lightly contaminated surfaces. R11 suits moderate wet or oily conditions. R13 is required for heavy oil, fats, or constant moisture. Underspecifying the rating defeats the purpose of anti-slip matting.
Chemical Compatibility
Different materials resist different substances. Nitrile rubber excels with petroleum-based oils and fuels. PVC handles a broad range of industrial chemicals and coolants. GRP (fibreglass) resists almost everything but provides no cushioning. Verify compatibility with your specific fluids before purchasing.
Drainage vs Solid Surface
Drainage mats (open-grid or perforated) allow liquids to pass through, keeping the walking surface drier. Essential for wet processing, washdown areas, or anywhere with standing water. Solid mats are easier to clean and better for dry environments. Choose based on your contamination type.
Anti-Fatigue Properties
If workers stand for extended periods, consider mats that combine anti-slip with anti-fatigue cushioning. Safe-Flex provides R13 slip resistance alongside 16mm cushioning. Pure anti-slip products (like COBAGRiP) prioritise traction only—they're excellent for steps and ramps but not for standing workstations.
Installation and Maintenance
Modular interlocking mats require no adhesive and can be lifted for cleaning or reconfigured. Sheet/roll products may need adhesive for permanent installation. Consider whether you'll need to clean beneath mats, move them for maintenance, or reconfigure layouts over time.
Edge Treatment
Untreated mat edges are trip hazards—undermining the safety purpose. Ensure your chosen product includes bevelled edge ramps or border pieces. Most quality modular systems offer compatible edge components. For sheet products, check that edges are properly finished or covered.
Methodology
How we evaluated these products
Our recommendations are based on manufacturer specifications, independent testing data, and feedback from UK facilities using these products in real-world conditions.
FAQ
Anti-slip mats: Your questions answered
What is the best slip rating for industrial mats?
For most industrial environments, R11 or higher is recommended. R13 (the highest rating) is best for areas with oils, fats, or constant moisture. Safe-Flex achieves R13, making it suitable for the most demanding conditions. R10 is adequate for dry or lightly contaminated surfaces only.
What do R-ratings mean for anti-slip mats?
R-ratings (R9-R13) measure slip resistance on inclined, oil-contaminated surfaces according to DIN 51130. R9 is basic (dry areas only), R10 is standard, R11-R12 is enhanced for moderate contamination, and R13 is the highest rating for heavy oil/fat exposure. Higher numbers mean better grip.
Are anti-slip mats the same as anti-fatigue mats?
No, though they can overlap. Anti-slip mats prioritise traction and grip to prevent falls. Anti-fatigue mats prioritise cushioning to reduce standing strain. Some products, like Safe-Flex, combine both—providing R13 slip resistance alongside anti-fatigue cushioning. Check specifications for both properties if you need both.
What is the best anti-slip mat for oily environments?
For environments with petroleum oils, nitrile rubber mats (Notrax Diamond Flex, COBA Cobaelite) offer superior chemical resistance. For general oil resistance with higher slip ratings, Safe-Flex (R13, PVC) handles most automotive and engineering fluids effectively. Always verify compatibility with your specific substances.
Do anti-slip mats work when wet?
Quality anti-slip mats are designed to maintain grip when wet. However, performance varies significantly—check the R-rating, which is tested on contaminated surfaces. Drainage mats allow water to pass through, keeping the walking surface drier. For constantly wet areas, open-grid drainage mats may be more appropriate than solid surfaces.
How do I clean anti-slip mats?
Most industrial anti-slip mats can be cleaned with a pressure washer, floor scrubber, or stiff brush with mild detergent. Aggressive textured surfaces (like COBAGRiP) may require more effort. Modular tiles can be lifted for cleaning beneath. Establish a regular schedule—debris in textured surfaces can reduce grip over time.
What is the best anti-slip mat for steps and ramps?
For steps and ramps, COBAGRiP (fibreglass GRP) or 3M Safety-Walk provide aggressive grip surfaces designed for these applications. These products sacrifice comfort for maximum traction and are not suitable for standing workstations. For workstation areas with steps nearby, use dedicated stair nosings or ramp covers.
Can anti-slip mats handle forklift traffic?
Standard anti-slip mats are designed for pedestrian areas. Forklifts can damage or displace most matting products. For mixed-traffic zones, use edge ramps, secure mats properly, and consider harder-wearing products like Deckplate. Keep cushioned anti-slip mats in dedicated pedestrian areas away from vehicle routes.
Do I need drainage holes in anti-slip mats?
Drainage mats (open-grid or perforated) are essential in wet environments—allowing water to pass through keeps the walking surface drier and safer. In dry environments, solid mats are easier to clean and provide a more stable surface. Assess your specific zone's contamination levels when choosing.
Where can I get anti-slip mat samples in the UK?
Maximum Matting dispatches free Safe-Flex samples within 1 working day, including specification sheets. COBA Europe and Notrax also offer samples through their websites or distributors. We strongly recommend testing samples in your actual environment—especially on your specific floor surface and with your typical contaminants.
Conclusion: Which anti-slip mat should you buy?
For most UK facilities needing both slip protection and worker comfort, Safe-Flex is the best overall choice. Its R13 slip rating—the highest available—handles demanding conditions, while the anti-fatigue cushioning protects workers standing for extended periods.
For specific applications: use COBAGRiP on steps, ramps, and extreme slip hazard zones. Choose Notrax Diamond Flex for environments with heavy petroleum oil exposure. Select COBA Workzone W for wet processing areas needing drainage.
We recommend requesting samples before committing to large orders. Testing on your actual floor surface, with your typical contaminants, is the only way to confirm a product performs as expected in your environment.
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