Question 1

What is ESD matting?

Accepted Answer

ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) matting is flooring designed to safely dissipate static electricity and protect sensitive electronic components from electrostatic damage. It creates a controlled path for static charges to reach ground, preventing component failure during assembly, testing, and repair work.

Question 2

How does ESD matting work?

Accepted Answer

ESD matting uses conductive or dissipative materials that allow static charges to flow through the mat to a grounding point. When operators stand on grounded ESD matting, static buildup is continuously discharged, preventing sudden electrostatic discharges that can damage sensitive electronics.

Question 3

What is IEC 61340 compliance?

Accepted Answer

IEC 61340 is the international standard for electrostatic control in electronics manufacturing and handling. IEC 61340-5-1 specifies requirements for ESD protective areas (EPAs), including surface resistance ranges for flooring (1.0 x 10^6 to 1.0 x 10^9 ohms). Safe-Flex ESD matting meets these requirements with proper grounding.

Question 4

How do you ground ESD matting?

Accepted Answer

Safe-Flex ESD tiles include grounding connection points that link to a verified earth ground. Connect the mat to ground using grounding cords or strips, then verify resistance to ground using an ohmmeter. Proper grounding ensures static charges dissipate safely and maintains EPA compliance.

Question 5

What is the difference between ESD and anti-static matting?

Accepted Answer

Anti-static is a general term for materials that resist static buildup. ESD matting is specifically designed for controlled electrostatic discharge with measurable resistance ranges (typically 10^6-10^9 ohms) and grounding requirements. ESD matting meets IEC 61340 standards and provides verified static protection for electronics assembly.

Question 6

How long does ESD matting last?

Accepted Answer

Safe-Flex ESD matting by ErgoAdvantage has an expected lifespan of 8+ years with proper maintenance and periodic resistance testing. The static-dissipative properties remain effective throughout the mat's life when grounding is maintained and mats are kept clean and free from contamination.

Question 7

Is ESD matting also anti-fatigue?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Safe-Flex ESD matting combines static dissipation with ergonomic anti-fatigue cushioning. Operators get both component protection and comfort for long shifts at electronics assembly benches, test stations, and repair areas. This dual functionality eliminates the need for separate matting systems.

Question 8

How do I request a quote or specification pack?

Accepted Answer

Use the contact form and include your target area, bench layout, EPA requirements, and any IEC 61340 compliance documentation needed. We'll respond with a recommendation, surface resistance data, grounding instructions, and a full specification pack.

Manufacturing & Heavy Engineering

Food Production & Laboratories

Logistics, Retail & Distribution

Anti-Slip Matting

Anti-Fatigue Matting

ESD/Anti-Static Matting

Hot Works & Welding

ESD matting for electronics assembly and test areas.

See Safe-Flex ESD matting in use.

What to include in your request

Where ESD matting is commonly used

ESD product options

Safe-Flex ESD Anti-Fatigue Workstation Mat

Safe-Flex ESD Anti-Fatigue Workstation Mat

Safe-Flex ESD Anti-Fatigue Workstation Mat

ESD matting: Maximum Matting vs Bondline, COBA, Wearwell and other UK suppliers.

IEC 61340 compliant with grounding

Anti-fatigue and ESD combined

Modular EPA layouts

Need British-made matting with guaranteed compliance and sustainability?

Tell us about your matting project and we will design a Safe-Flex or Stand-Safe solution made in Britain.