10 Signs You Need a New Anti-Fatigue Mat

Anti fatigue mats play a vital role in keeping workers comfortable, productive, and safe. But like any workplace tool, they don’t last forever. Worn-out or incorrect matting doesn’t just underperform—it can increase the risk of injury, fatigue, and absenteeism.

So how can you tell when it’s time for a matting upgrade? Look out for these 10 clear warning signs:

1. Eroded or Damaged Surface Texture

The top layer of your mat is key to traction and stability. When this surface becomes worn smooth or eroded, the mat loses its effectiveness. This could lead to slips, trips, or general discomfort.

2. Mats That Need to Be Flipped Over

If staff are flipping mats upside down in search of more cushioning or grip, it’s a strong indicator the mat has deteriorated and no longer serves its purpose. Mats should perform optimally right side up—anything else is a workaround or even a hazard, not a solution.

3. Standing on the Edge or Off the Mat

Are team members consistently standing on the edge of the mat—or off it altogether? That’s a sign the mat is the wrong shape or size for the workstation. This can reduce comfort, defeat ergonomic benefits, and create trip hazards. Custom-sized matting can provide full coverage that works with the space, not against it.

4. Mats Moving Around whilst in use

Sliding mats are both dangerous and inefficient. If anti-fatigue standing mat are shifting underfoot or being layered to stay in place, it’s time to consider better traction options—such as mats with a grip-coated base or fully custom-shaped solutions that stay firmly where they belong.

5. Curled or Raised Borders

Curling edges often point to a mismatch between the mat and its environment—heat, moisture, or traffic levels might be too extreme for the material. This not only reduces safety but also shortens mat life. In such cases, switching to a more appropriate matting solution is essential.
With our MatBrain™ decision tree it’s now easier than ever to find the best solution for your unique requirements.

6. Mats Being Stacked

If your workers are stacking mats in an attempt to boost comfort, it likely means the mats provided aren’t doing their job. This is a major red flag for ergonomics—and can result in unstable, uneven surfaces that are more dangerous than helpful. In many cases, it also indicates that the existing anti fatigue matting is ineffective, prompting workers to compensate for the lack of proper support by layering. This not only undermines the intended purpose of anti fatigue solutions but can also lead to increased safety hazards and reduced productivity.

7. Compressed or Flattened Mats

Over time, some anti-fatigue mats can lose their cushioning properties. If the mat appears thin, hard, or doesn’t bounce back after standing pressure, it has lost its ergonomic function. Always match mat thickness and density to the demands of your workspace and standing duration. This is where the quality of mat brand and materials truly matters. High-performance anti fatigue mats made from 100% nitrile rubber are exceptionally durable—they retain their shape and resilience even under heavy, prolonged use, and are specifically engineered not to compress or flatten over time.
Read our guide on choosing the best anti fatigue mat material to learn more about what characteristics each material have and for what site they are best suited.

8. Pieced-Together Sections of Matting

Are different mat types or scrap pieces being joined to cover one area? This usually means the current matting solution doesn’t meet the space’s real needs. Instead of patching, a custom mat or modular system ensures full coverage, safety, and durability.

9. Tile Seams Coming Apart

For interlocking tile systems, separating seams or corners indicate a material or quality issue. Whether due to poor initial installation or simply the wrong product for the environment, this should be addressed before it becomes a safety risk.

10. Rising Absenteeism or Staff Complaints

Unseen but serious, increased workplace fatigue, musculoskeletal discomfort, or complaints from employees can all point to ineffective matting. When mats no longer offer relief, it contributes to fatigue-related absences—and long-term health issues.

Why Expert Support Matters

Every site, team, and task are different—and so are the demands on your matting. When you spot any of these red flags, it’s more than just a maintenance issue; it’s a sign that your environment needs a tailored solution.

At COBA, our experts help you choose the right mat for your specific needs—based on risk, surface type, standing time, and more. The result? Better safety, more comfort, and a longer-lasting investment with the best possible return.

Our dedicated team of experts is always ready to help you find the Right Mat, First Time™.
If you’re unsure whether your current matting needs replacing or if there’s a more suitable solution for your environment, we recommend booking a site survey with our team. This not only ensures the safety and wellbeing of your employees but also helps maximise your return on investment through the implementation of effective, tailored anti-fatigue solutions.