Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) addresses the use of mats in public places, where entrances and exits must be kept free of hazards.

Section 302.1
"Floor and ground surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant"

Section 302.2
"Carpet or carpet tile shall be securely attached...Exposed edges of carpet shall be fastened to floor surfaces and shall have trim on the entire length of the exposed edge."

"Pile height shall be 1/2 inch maximum."

Section 302.3
"Changes in level between 1/4 inch high minimum and 1/2 inch high maximum shall be beveled with a slope not steeper than 1:2."

M+A's Commitment to Safety

Stable, Firm, & Slip-Resistant Matting - By design, M+A mats help collect and contain the dirt, grit, and moisture that could otherwise contribute to slip-and-fall accidents. M+A mats also meet the bevel requirements with the change in level required by section 302.3.

Mats Are Not Carpets - While section 302.2 states that, "Carpet or carpet tile shall be securely attached...Exposed edges of carpet shall be fastened to floor surfaces and shall have trim on the entire length of the exposed edge," the former Assistant Attorney General W. Lee Rawls stated that, "Floor mats are not considered carpeting." This means mats are not subject to section 302.2 of the ADA.

Enhanced Accessibility - It is important that all mats be placed correctly so that they do not create a tripping hazard. Rippled or torn mats should be removed from service immediately. Keep in mind that carpet remnants, unbeveled or unbacked matting, rippled vinyl-backed mats, and scatter rugs do not meet the requirements of the ADA and should be removed.

Many of our mats have been certified high-traction by the National Floor Safety Institute. Visit our mat listings to view all NFSI certified mats.