Rank: Forum user 
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Appreciate some guidance on flooring for the staff side of reception. Situation is staff stand to work whilst dealing with customers, so always on their feet. VDU workstation assessments have been carried out with no concerns of note. I wanted to know whether the floor has to be carpeted, or there is a requirement for cushioned matting. Staff work an average of 8hr shifts with appropriate breaks. I'm not looking at slip resistance, though more about making the floor less hard whilst standing and walking around.
I cannot find anything in DSE Regs, though to make the floor more comfortable and cushioned I am looking at matting (though not sure what is best). Appreciate views / experience anyone has had with this , inc. legislative requirements if there are any?
Thank you.
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Rank: Super forum user
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No legal requirement ( unless there is some obscure section of the OSR Act still in force) so it’s down to risk assessment and welfare management. How do the staff feel? How often do they take breaks. Can they walk about a bit or are they fixed in one spot? How healthy are they-anyone with circulatory problems? How’s the thermal comfort- is it warm or cold and draughty?
Ask lots of questions and then come to a conclusion based on necessity. Remember that mats will have to be laid properly to prevent them being a trip hazard. They will need to be kept clean. Hopefully they will be non-slip.
Some one might even argue they constitute a hazard during a fire. How many people will be walking over them? Anybody with a wheelchair or other mobility issues?
People with poor eyesight don’t t like them as they are an enhanced trip hazard for them.
Other people will come up with more question I suspect.
Have fun.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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A happy workforce is a productive one- trial a padded mat and see how they get on perhaps?
Jodie
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Rank: Forum user 
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We had folks standing at fumecupboards for long stretches - some were quite tall and so had the potential for back problems.
We ended up using about inch thick rubber mats, as Jodie suggests. They were sufficiently cushioned that it made a small difference to comfort.
All I can remember about them is they fitted together like puzzle pieces - hope this helps!
Andrew
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Rank: Super forum user
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google 'anti-fatigue matting' - It used to be commonly applied around machine tools where the setters had to stand for most of the day. Doesn't eliminate the tiredness, but can help to alleviate some of the signs and symptoms...
Hope this helps.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Gemstar - do they have chairs (or sit-stand chairs) when they don't NEED to be standing?
Workplace (HSW) Regs 1992, Regulation 11(3)
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Gemstone, have you considered shoe types?
Footwear plays a great part in comfort. Is there a requirement for a specific type, or can staff choose their own styles?
Fashion shoes may look great but rarely provide for day-long comfort, whilst the more comfortable shoe types may not look quite so smart.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Is it essential to stand at the reception at all times?
Can you not use some of the high level seats and resolve the issue ?
I also agree that footwear can & does have a significant impact. Not a simple matter unless you have a dress code
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