Product comparison
Safe-Flex vs COBA Fatigue-Step: Which anti-fatigue mat is right for you?
Two popular anti-fatigue matting options for UK factories and warehouses. Safe-Flex offers modular recycled PVC tiles; COBA Fatigue-Step provides tiles and rolls in nitrile rubber. This specification-level comparison helps you choose.
Specification comparison
Side-by-side specifications for Safe-Flex and COBA Fatigue-Step anti-fatigue matting.
| Specification | Safe-Flex | COBA Fatigue-Step |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ergo Advantage (West Midlands, UK) | COBA Europe (UK/Europe) |
| Material | 100% recycled PVC compound | Nitrile rubber / PVC |
| Format | Modular interlocking tiles | Tiles and rolls |
| Tile Sizes | 112×112cm, 158×112cm, 249×112cm | 90×90cm tiles, various roll widths |
| Thickness | 16mm | 12.5mm |
| Slip Rating | R13 | R10 |
| Installation | Interlocking, no adhesive | Loose lay or adhesive |
| ESD Option | Yes (IEC 61340 compliant) | Via separate product |
| Fire Resistant Option | Yes (same system) | Check specific product |
| Recycled Content | 100% | Varies |
About Safe-Flex
Safe-Flex is a modular anti-fatigue matting system manufactured by Ergo Advantage in the West Midlands. Each tile is pressed from 100% recycled PVC compound and features an interlocking edge system that requires no adhesive for installation.
The 16mm thickness provides cushioning for workers standing for extended periods. Safe-Flex is available in three tile sizes and multiple variants including standard, ESD, and fire-resistant options—all compatible within the same interlocking system.
Safe-Flex Pros:
- ✓ 100% recycled PVC—clear sustainability credentials
- ✓ R13 slip rating for enhanced safety
- ✓ Modular interlocking—no adhesive, easy reconfiguration
- ✓ ESD and fire-resistant options in same system
- ✓ UK manufactured with RAMS included
Safe-Flex Cons:
- ✗ Tiles only—no roll format available
- ✗ Smaller brand recognition than COBA
About COBA Fatigue-Step
COBA Fatigue-Step is an established anti-fatigue matting product from COBA Europe, one of the UK's largest matting manufacturers. It's available in both tile and roll formats, offering flexibility for different installation requirements.
Made from nitrile rubber or PVC depending on variant, Fatigue-Step provides cushioning at 12.5mm thickness. The product benefits from COBA's extensive distribution network and brand recognition built over 35+ years.
Fatigue-Step Pros:
- ✓ Available in tiles and rolls
- ✓ Established COBA brand with wide availability
- ✓ 35+ years of product development
- ✓ Nitrile rubber option for oil resistance
Fatigue-Step Cons:
- ✗ Lower slip rating (R10 vs R13)
- ✗ May require adhesive for permanent installation
- ✗ Recycled content varies by product
Which to choose for your application
Choose Safe-Flex if:
- ✓ You need to meet sustainability or recycled content targets
- ✓ Your layout may change and you want easy reconfiguration
- ✓ You need ESD protection within the same matting system
- ✓ Higher slip rating (R13) is important for your environment
- ✓ You want UK manufacturing with included RAMS documentation
- ✓ You prefer adhesive-free installation
Choose COBA Fatigue-Step if:
- • You need roll format for large continuous areas
- • You have an existing COBA installation to extend
- • Nitrile rubber is specified for chemical resistance
- • You prefer an established, widely-distributed brand
- • Permanent adhesive installation is acceptable
Safe-Flex tile sizes
Three formats, one interlocking system
Standard
112 × 112cm
Compact format for single workstations
Extended
158 × 112cm
Ideal for assembly lines
Maximum
249 × 112cm
Maximum coverage for production cells
Key difference
Modular vs traditional installation
The fundamental difference between these products is the installation approach. Safe-Flex's interlocking system offers flexibility; Fatigue-Step offers a more traditional fixed installation.
Safe-Flex: Modular
- • Tiles interlock without adhesive
- • Can be lifted and reconfigured
- • Replace individual damaged tiles
- • Take matting with you if you relocate
Fatigue-Step: Traditional
- • Loose lay or adhesive installation
- • Roll format covers large areas quickly
- • Permanent installation option
- • Established installation methods
FAQ
Safe-Flex vs Fatigue-Step: Common questions
What is the main difference between Safe-Flex and COBA Fatigue-Step?
Safe-Flex is a modular interlocking system made from 100% recycled PVC, while COBA Fatigue-Step is available in both tiles and rolls made from nitrile rubber or PVC. Safe-Flex tiles interlock without adhesive; Fatigue-Step typically requires loose lay or adhesive installation. Safe-Flex offers ESD and fire-resistant options within the same system.
Which has a better slip rating?
Safe-Flex has an R13 slip rating, while COBA Fatigue-Step is rated R10. Higher R ratings indicate better slip resistance, particularly important in environments where oils or liquids may be present. Both provide adequate grip for most industrial applications, but R13 offers additional safety margin.
Can I reconfigure Safe-Flex after installation?
Yes. Safe-Flex tiles interlock without adhesive, meaning they can be lifted, moved, and reconfigured as your workspace changes. Individual damaged tiles can be replaced without disturbing the surrounding area. This is particularly useful for facilities that reorganise production lines or workstations regularly.
Which is better for sustainability targets?
Safe-Flex is manufactured from 100% recycled PVC compound and produced in the UK, reducing both material waste and transport emissions. COBA Fatigue-Step recycled content varies by specific product variant. For organisations with ISO 14001 or explicit sustainability KPIs, Safe-Flex offers clearer credentials.
How do I get samples to compare both products?
Safe-Flex samples are available free from Maximum Matting, dispatched within 1 working day with full specification sheets. COBA Fatigue-Step samples can be requested through COBA Europe or their distributors. We recommend testing both side-by-side in your actual working environment before committing to a large order.
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