Industrial mats play a significant role in protecting workers, equipment, and facilities while contributing to safety, enhanced productivity and reduced maintenance costs. Clean India Journal Special Correspondent Keerthana Sundar interacts with Nobin Ipe, CEO of Vikas Rubbers, to understand how rubber mats function effectively in industrial settings.
Mats are designed to meet various specific needs, including anti-fatigue, static control, chemical resistance, and slip prevention. Unlike standard commercial or residential mats, industrial mats are engineered with advanced materials and technology to withstand harsh conditions, including extreme pressures, temperatures, and exposure to corrosive substances.
“Industrial floors are subjected to heavy footfall, machinery, and harsh fluid spills. Rubber mats are specially treated to tackle these impediments and hence come at a cost compared to plastic mats,” says Nobin Ipe.
Based on the application, rubber mats undergo processing to make them suitable to withstand diverse conditions. Anti-fatigue, anti-skid, oil spill-resistant, and heavy-duty tolerant are some properties regularly requested.
Industry workers stand for long hours and hence the surface on which they stand should not possess properties to cause excess fatigue. Hygiene is an important factor as it ties up closely with the safety of employees. Chemical spills along with the operation of heavy machinery like forklifts pose challenges. These are mitigated by using mats which are sturdy and easy to clean.
By addressing unique challenges such as ergonomic support, contamination control, and environmental sustainability, specialised mats for industrial applications are indispensable tools in the quest for operational excellence and workplace safety.
Industrial mats come with cleaning instructions but pressure washing and vacuuming work well to maintain their longevity.
The Indian market shows an upward trend in adopting specialised mats for diverse applications. Many international companies are investing in India as the demand for hygiene and safety standards grow to match practices abroad. “Tighter regulations surrounding industrial mats are the need of the hour. Moreover, consumers should adopt an open mindset, to invest in good quality mats to protect their employees’ well-being. Rubber mats are an ideal candidate as they are sustainable, recyclable and eco-friendly,” adds Nobin.
“At Vikas Rubbers, based out of Kerala, the R&D team is committed to the development of biodegradable products and believes in ethical trade policies. We manufacture rubber mats for diverse flooring, including industrial, commercial, playground, gym, kitchen, farm, equine, and entrance. We also export mats to various countries.”