Adhesive Matting- What are the Benefits?

What is Adhesive Matting?

Adhesive matting is simple, yet highly effective in helping reduce particle contamination within your controlled environment. Keeping dirt and dust as well as other contaminants out of the cleanroom is crucial.  Adhesive matting, or sticky matting, traps and removes dirt, dust and other contaminants from the soles of shoes and wheels of equipment as you walk across them.

While adhesive mats are effective in controlling contamination when used correctly, it’s important to note that they are just one part of a broader cleanroom strategy. Maintaining cleanliness in critical environments requires a combination of measures to ensure optimal effectiveness. Regular training, monitoring, and adherence to protocols are essential for the ongoing success of contamination control efforts.

Our top tips for the effective use of adhesive matting:

Strategic Placement:

Place adhesive mats at all entry points to the cleanroom and in critical areas where contamination control is essential. Consider the flow of personnel and equipment to ensure that all foot and wheel traffic passes over the mats.

Proper Sizing:

Use appropriately sized mats to cover the entire width of entryways. This ensures that individuals and equipment are forced to make contact with the adhesive surface, maximizing the removal of contaminants.

Clearly Marked Zones:

Clearly mark the areas where adhesive mats are placed. This helps personnel and visitors recognize the designated clean zones and encourages them to step on the mats before entering.

Regular Inspection:

Establish a routine for regularly inspecting and replacing adhesive mat layers. When the surface becomes visibly dirty or loses its tackiness, it’s time to peel off the top layer and expose a fresh, clean sheet.

Strict Footwear Protocol:

Enforce a strict footwear protocol. Ensure that individuals entering cleanroom areas understand the importance of stepping onto the adhesive mat with each entry. This includes both employees and visitors.

Provide Step-On Assistance:

In areas where individuals may be carrying heavy equipment or loads, consider providing step-on assistance, such as low-profile ramps or platforms. This ensures that the entire sole of the shoe makes contact with the adhesive surface.

Train Personnel:

Provide training to personnel on the proper use and importance of adhesive mats. Emphasize the role they play in contamination control and maintaining the cleanroom’s required cleanliness levels.

Secure Placement:

Ensure that the adhesive mats are securely placed on the floor. Use an appropriate adhesive or non-slip backing to prevent the mats from shifting or becoming a tripping hazard.

Documented Procedures:

Document and communicate procedures for using adhesive mats. Include instructions on when and how often the mats should be replaced, and ensure that this information is readily available to all personnel.

Integrate into Cleanroom Protocols:

Integrate the use of adhesive mats into broader cleanroom protocols. This includes gowning procedures, equipment cleaning, and overall cleanliness practices. Adhesive mats should be one component of a comprehensive contamination control strategy.

Consider Mat Frames:

In high-traffic areas, consider using mat frames or frames with bevelled edges. These can help prevent tripping and make it easier for carts and equipment to smoothly transition onto the adhesive surface.

Monitor and Adjust:

Regularly monitor the effectiveness of adhesive mat usage. If contamination levels are not meeting the required standards, consider adjusting the placement or frequency of mat replacement.

See our handy matting installation guide to help you maintain a high level of cleanliness and minimise the risk of contamination in your cleanroom.

For more tips and information on maximising the effectiveness of your cleanroom visit our Resource Area.