Since the 1960's, anti fatigue mats have gained popularity amongst physical laborers. In fact, anti fatigue mats have come to be known as ergonomic products, suggesting that they offer an actual benefit in reducing ailments and increasing comfort. How accurate are these claims? Is there any proof attesting to the efficacy of these mats?

There have been qualitative and quantitative studies that have been conducted on anti fatigue mats. One of the most notable studies is the Wearwell study, in which participants were asked to rate the performance of mats on several factors. Actual enhancement of productivity was also measured on a company level.

The study was undertaken on a company in Tennessee that was experiencing a significant accident rate and a high level of absenteeism. The company was provided anti fatigue matting in exchange for agreeing to a 12 month study.

The 1st step was to determine the type of matting that would suit the manufacturing areas within the company location. The 2nd step was to design a qualitative questionnaire for the workers that would be using the mats. The workers were asked to fill out the questionnaire for two weeks prior to the mats being installed. The last step was to determine the quantitative criteria that would be measured before and after the study.

The results of the study were startling. Before the mats, 6% and 94% of the workers indicated that the work surface was hard and very hard, respectively. 100% of the workers indicated that they were very tired or exhausted after completing a full shift.

After using the anti fatigue mats for a few months, 100% of the workers were only slightly to moderately tired after working a full shift, and none of the workers were very tired or exhausted.

Quantitatively, average absenteeism rates fell by over 20%, especially on Mondays. Moreover, average time lost due to injuries improved by over 300%. The company significantly reduced costs and boosted profitability as a direct result of installing anti fatigue mats in their facilities.

The Wearwell Study is one of the famous studies evaluating the performance of anti fatigue mats. Other studies have also been undertaken and concluded by notable researchers, delivering similar results as the Wearwell Study, particularly in qualitative criteria.

The bottom-line is that anti fatigue mats are certainly a viable tool for increasing worker productivity, reducing absenteeism, and reducing the rate of injury. The popularity that this innovative matting has gained over the last three decades has been substantiated by real research.The news come from http://www.bossgoo.com