Corrugated Switchboard Mats

(Non-conductive) switchboard matting is specialized safety flooring made from an insulating material that prevents electrical current from passing through to ground. It's designed to help protect individuals from electrical shock when operating or maintaining electrical equipment by creating a barrier between the person and the ground.

Switchboard mats are manufactured from synthetic non-conductive vinyl compounds that have high dielectric properties. The vinyl is specially formulated to resist electrical conductivity while maintaining durability and flexibility. These mats also incorporate additional materials for enhanced properties like oil resistance and increased longevity.

Switchboard mats are available in various voltage ratings, commonly ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 volts. The appropriate rating depends on the electrical equipment being serviced. All non-conductive mats are tested and certified to ensure they can withstand specific voltage levels without breakdown or current leakage.

Switchboard matting should be used in front of electrical panels, switchboards, transformers, circuit breaker panels, and any other electrical equipment where workers might be exposed to energized components. These non-conductive, protective mats are essential in substations, industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and anywhere electrical maintenance work is performed.

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the switchboard mats with mild soap and water to remove dirt, oil, and contaminants that could affect their insulating properties. Avoid using petroleum-based cleaners or harsh chemicals. Inspect mats regularly for cuts, tears, embedded metal objects, or other damage. Store mats flat or rolled (not folded) when not in use to prevent permanent creasing.

Key standards include ASTM D178 (Standard Specification for Insulating Matting) in the United States, and IEC 61111 internationally. These standards specify requirements for electrical, physical, and visual properties, as well as testing methods and classification systems.  These non-conductive mats conform to the latest ANSI/ASTM D-178-01 requirements.

While mats can easily be trimmed to fit specific areas, it's important to ensure that cut is clean and thus doesn't compromise the mat's integrity. Cutting should be done carefully with appropriate tools, like a utility knife with a fresh blade and a straight edge.  The edges of the mat should be inspected to ensure nothing has been damaged.

Switchboard floor matting ranges from 3/16" to 1/2" thick, with thicker mats providing better insulation and durability. The appropriate thickness depends on the voltage rating required by the equipment and the working environment. Higher voltage applications require thicker matting.  The thickness (also designated by the Class 1 through 4), will correspond to great voltage insulation.  Please see the product description and associated images for more details.

While not universally mandated, some Class 2 switchboard mats are manufactured in black with bright yellow borders to make them easily identifiable as safety equipment. Some facilities use specific these colored mats to indicate voltage ratings or designate particular electrical zones but there is no standard, per se.