The Correct Anti-fatigue Mat Can Decrease Discomfort

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that “lost productive time from common pain conditions among active workers costs an estimated $61.2 billion per year,” and nearly 80 percent of that lost productive time was due to reduced performance at work rather than work absence.

When it comes to being productive and effective, workers need more than just a safe and efficient work environment; they also need to be physically and psychologically able to perform.  That includes being free of pain and discomfort.  If our work involves standing, we all know how uncomfortable and even debilitating that can be.

According to the AMA, almost 13% of all workers experience pain in the workplace that effects productivity.  About 76% of those workers don’t complain, or file a report, they simply stay on the job, and become less productive by just under an hour a day, 4.6 hours a week.  That translates to about 22 days of lost productivity per year, due to pain on the job.  That’s a lot of pain!

The need to battle the issue of standing-worker discomfort crosses all business sectors.  Even a smart, current trend in office environments to utilize standing desks that can offer healthy ergonomic options to reduce discomfort from prolonged sitting, can also create the potential to experience discomfort in the feet, legs and back from standing.

Relief from standing pain is complicated by a confusing array of low-quality (so-called) anti-fatigue products, and by consumers who lack the information to make informed choices.   The solution / decision begins with a simple question:  Do you want a piece of foam or gel, or do you want anti-fatigue technology?

SmartCells Anti-Fatigue Runner – Airport

“Research on the research” indicates that there are several critical features that a standing surface needs to have if it is optimized for relieving fatigue that effects productivity:  1.  It needs to be appropriately compressible (softness without bottoming out), 2.  It should be unstable enough to encourage blood flow (venous pump) in standing-related muscles, but stable enough to not overwork those muscles, and 3.  It needs to be actively responsive and highly supportive.  These critical features are all carefully designed into the SmartCells technology, which is easily differentiated in the marketplace by its unique rubber cellular structures that act like springs to cushion, support, and return energy.

SmartCells function in exactly the opposite ways from foam and gel.  SmartCells get softer as compressed.  Foam gets harder as compressed, and gel just squishes out of the way.  SmartCells will not bottom out under typical worker-related activities.  Foam needs to be thick to avoid bottoming out, often resulting in an overly soft, unstable standing surface that overworks muscles.  SmartCells act like springs and when weight is shifted they “spring” back and return energy.  Foam and gel can be highly non-responsive.  Ever heard of “memory foam”?

The renowned SmartCells anti-fatigue products, trusted by leading companies that are serious about worker health and safety, and productivity, are now also available to everyday consumers.

SATECH SmartCells anti-fatigue technology is available in mats, runners, custom floors, and now with a new generation of insoles to bring relief to workers and dramatically impact heath and well-being.

There’s a new footprint in town.  It’s not foam, it’s not gel.  It’s SmartCells.

Call for information, or order online at www.SmartCellsUSA.com

SATECH Launches New Build-Your-Own Custom SmartCells Fall Protection Mat

SATECH Inc. is proud to introduce the latest innovation in its renowned SmartCells Fall Protection line of products: the Build-Your-Own Custom SmartCells Fall Protection Mat. The all-new Build-Your-Own (BYO) fall protection mat is ideal for consumers caring for ‘aging in place’ family members;  it provides consumers with the ability to design and implement a custom fall protection mat in the areas where it is most needed.

“Folks who fall, don’t always land where we hope they will,” says Al Shelley, Marketing Director at SATECH, Inc. “so, having a modular, expandable design is an important and flexible alternative to bedside fall mats.”

Adding BYO mats to SATECH’s market-leading array of fall protection mats and flooring is timed to coincide with National Fall Prevention Awareness week beginning on Sunday September 22, which brings public awareness to the potential lethality of a fall, and its associated complications, for our loved ones.

BYO SmartCells Fall Protection mats consist of attractive inter-connecting mat segments that simply lay on top of an existing floor, and are perfect for any area where falls are likely to occur, like bathrooms, bedrooms and hallways.

According to Center for Disease Control expert Judy Stevens, 30-35% of people over age 65 fall each year, one in five of those falls involve a serious injury, and 65% of those falls result in an emergency room visit.

A bone fracture, or any other fall-related injury for that matter, can be extremely dangerous and is often considered the beginning of an elderly person’s demise. In fact, the CDC also found that “approximately 20% of older adults hospitalized for a hip fracture die within a year and about 50% will suffer a major decline in independence.”

SmartCells Fall Protection products offer effective solutions to this issue. The unique SmartCells dual –stiffness technology provides stability for balance impaired persons and care givers, while at the same time providing life-saving cushioning to protect our loved ones when they fall.

BYO SmartCells fall protection mats combine effectiveness with style and quality, including features like a low profile height (1/2”) and molded-in beveled edges which reduce tripping hazards and allow most wheeled objects to roll over the mat, without needing to move it out of the way.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats are made of latex-free rubber that will not absorb liquids, which reduces the risk of contamination and infection and allows them to be easily cleaned.  Independent testing, using widely accepted protocols (ATSM F355 – 10a) indicates that SmartCells cushioning technology is 2 – 4 times more effective at attenuating impact forces than mats that are nearly twice as thick.

With the recent introduction of SATECH Inc.’s new website, consumers can view different variations of SmartCells products, learn about the technology and determine which solution is best for them. Ordering a  BYO SmartCells fall protection mat is painless; simply email SATECH Inc. a sketch of the area that needs protection and we’ll design the mat that is best for you, plus provide simple assembly instructions.

SATECH Inc. is a technology company that specializes in the development and marketing of SmartCells cushioning solutions that enhance performance, reduce fatigue and help prevent fall-related injuries. SmartCells mats and flooring have broad application in the industrial workplace, healthcare markets, and everyday consumer households. For more information, please call (360) 748-8711, visit www.smartcellsusa.com , or view the following video: https://www.smartcellsusa.com/technology/videos/ .

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SmartCells Build-Your-Own Fall Protection: We’ll Be There When You Can’t Be

Chehalis, Wash., — September 2013—

SATECH Inc. is proud to introduce the latest innovation in its renowned SmartCells Fall Protection line of products: the Build-Your-Own Custom Fall Protection Mat. The all-new Build-Your-Own (BYO) fall protection mat is ideal for consumers caring for ‘aging in place’ family members;  it provides consumers with the ability to design and implement a custom fall protection mat in the areas where it is most needed.

“Folks who fall, don’t always land where we hope they will,” says Al Shelley, Marketing Director at SATECH, Inc. “so, having a modular, expandable design is an important and flexible alternative to bedside fall mats.”

Adding BYO mats to SATECH’s market-leading array of fall protection mats and flooring is timed to coincide with National Fall Prevention Awareness week beginning on Sunday September 22, which brings public awareness to the potential lethality of a fall, and its associated complications, for our loved ones.

BYO Fall Protection mats consist of attractive inter-connecting mat segments that simply lay on top of an existing floor, and are perfect for any area where falls are likely to occur, like bathrooms, bedrooms and hallways.

According to Center for Disease Control expert Judy Stevens, 30-35% of people over age 65 fall each year, one in five of those falls involve a serious injury, and 65% of those falls result in an emergency room visit.

A bone fracture, or any other fall-related injury for that matter, can be extremely dangerous and is often considered the beginning of an elderly person’s demise. In fact, the CDC also found that “approximately 20% of older adults hospitalized for a hip fracture die within a year and about 50% will suffer a major decline in independence.”

SmartCells Fall Protection products offer effective solutions to this issue. The unique SmartCells dual –stiffness technology provides stability for balance impaired persons and care givers, while at the same time providing life-saving cushioning to protect our loved ones when they fall.

SmartCells BYO fall protection mats combine effectiveness with style and quality, including features like a low profile height (1/2”) and molded-in beveled edges which reduce tripping hazards and allow most wheeled objects to roll over the mat, without needing to move it out of the way.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats are made of latex-free rubber that will not absorb liquids, which reduces the risk of contamination and infection and allows them to be easily cleaned.  Independent testing, using widely accepted protocols (ATSM F355 – 10a) indicates that SmartCells cushioning technology is 2 – 4 times more effective at attenuating impact forces than mats that are nearly twice as thick.

With the recent introduction of SATECH Inc.’s new website, consumers can view different variations of SmartCells products, learn about the technology and determine which solution is best for them. Ordering a SmartCells BYO fall protection custom mat is painless; simply email SATECH Inc. a sketch of the area that needs protection and we’ll design the mat that is best for you, plus provide simple assembly instructions.

SATECH Inc. is a technology company that specializes in the development and marketing of SmartCells cushioning solutions that enhance performance, reduce fatigue and help prevent fall-related injuries. SmartCells mats and flooring have broad application in the industrial workplace, healthcare markets, and everyday consumer households. For more information, please call (360) 748-8711, visit www.smartcellsusa.com , or view the following video: https://www.smartcellsusa.com/technology/videos/ .

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SmartCells Fall Protection: The Solution to “I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up!”

Many of us remember the commercials that often run on late night television with the phrase “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up.” Even younger generations have picked up on this phrase that often is used in a comical sense. However, many people simply don’t understand the potential lethality even a small fall could have for one of our elderly loved ones.

We are taught from the time that we are infants taking our first steps that falling is a part of walking and that we need to pick ourselves up, dust off the dirt, and keep on going. When we were first learning to walk there was often someone there to help pick us up when you fall.

But what happens if there is no one there to pick you up when you fall and can’t get up?

This question has been of serious concern for many elders and their loved ones who face the difficult task of trying to maintain independence, while being safeguarded against the dangers associated with that. While we wish we could always be there for our elderly loved ones, the fact of the matter is that we can’t.

According to Center for Disease Control expert Judy Stevens, 30-35% of people over age 65 fall each year, one in five of those falls involve a serious injury, and 65% of those falls result in an emergency room visit.

SmartCells Fall Protection Mat

A bone fracture, or any other fall-related injury for that matter, can be extremely dangerous even potentially fatal and is often considered the beginning of an elderly person’s demise. In fact, the CDC also found that “approximately 20% of older adults hospitalized for a hip fracture die within a year and about 50% will suffer a major decline in independence.”

SmartCells Fall Protection mats and flooring offer effective solutions to this issue. The unique SmartCells technology utilizes what is known as dual-stiffness flooring because it provides the stability of being on a hard surface while also retaining the capability to compress like springs which cushion falls and protects our loved ones.

SATECH, Inc. SmartCells fall protection mats combine style and quality with features like beveled edges, which reduce tripping hazards and allow wheeled objects such as beds and chairs to easily roll over the mat, and anti-slip surfaces, to provide a safe and elegant alternative to many other fall protection and prevention products. In addition to fall protection mats, SATECH, Inc. also offers custom flooring solutions when the potential space where a fall can happen is larger than that of a mat.

SATECH, Inc. fall protection mats and flooring solutions will be there for your loved ones when you can’t be.

SATECH’s Latest Anti-Fatigue Technology Scheduled To Launch in September

Chehalis, Wash., — August 2013—
After years of product development, SATECH, Inc. will formally launch their latest line of renowned anti-fatigue products, SmartCells Anti-fatigue Insoles, in September.

The all-new line of SmartCells Anti-fatigue Insoles incorporates the same anti-fatigue technology trusted by leading companies to keep their workers comfortable, productive and pain-free.

To help eliminate muscular fatigue, joint-stress and pain from a wide range of sustained standing, walking and running activities, SmartCells Insoles will be available in three styles: Standard, Therapeutic Orthotic and Active Orthotic.

Standard SmartCells Insoles easily slip into most shoes and provide immediate relief from pain associated with standing for long periods of time. Additionally, SmartCells Therapeutic Orthotic Insoles offer increased arch and heel support, while SmartCells Active Orthotic Insoles offer enhanced stability and support for those who are more vigorous in their activities.

All three SmartCells Insoles products are ideal and intended for use by those who are too mobile to utilize SmartCells anti-fatigue mats, runners or custom flooring.

The SmartCells anti-fatigue technology is significantly different than typical foam or gel insoles, which can break down quickly and lack critical features to optimize fatigue relief. SmartCells become softer as they are compressed, just the opposite of foam, and are highly responsive, unlike gel, acting like miniature springs to absorb and return energy. The result is an extraordinarily comfortable cushion that actively adjusts to body movements and is unique to any insole on the market.

“For a long time our clients have suggested that we integrate our SmartCells technology into shoes, since many of their workers spend so much time walking around. After years of careful product development and iteration, we have finally done it! There’s really nothing like it,” says Bob Bishop, Production Manager at SATECH, Inc.

SmartCells Insole prototypes have been available through SATECH, Inc.’s website, www.smartcellsusa.com , for early adopters and consumer testing. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive with typical comments such as:

  • It’s like walking in new shoes every day.
  • My leg muscles were aching on a normal basis after a day at work. Now they feel good…no aches. Back muscles seem to not ache, as well.
  • I have noticed I move faster and with less knee/leg discomfort.

In addition to SmartCells Anti-fatigue Insoles being offered to existing clients in the industrial, healthcare, transportation, office and distribution marketplace, they are also available to consumers at SATECH’s online retail store. The product launch is timed to make sure all customers can order them in time for holiday shopping.

SATECH Inc. is a technology company that specializes in the development and marketing of SmartCells cushioning solutions that enhance performance, reduce fatigue and help prevent fall-related injuries. SmartCells mats and flooring have broad application in the industrial workplace, healthcare markets, and everyday consumer households. For more information, please call (360) 748-8711, visit www.smartcellsusa.com , or view the following videos .

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SmartCells Anti-Fatigue Mats Redefine Comfort for the Home and Office

Chehalis, Wash., — July 2013—

SATECH, Inc. announces an enhanced lineup of SmartCells anti-fatigue mats that add an elegant upgrade to it its highly regarded cushioning technology.  The same best-practice, anti-fatigue technology trusted in industrial environments by leading companies is now available to office workers and consumers for standing desks and in-home use.

Ergonomically wise office workers have created a dramatic trend toward standing desks in the workplace in serious efforts to attain healthier, more productive lifestyles, but prolonged standing can be painful and even debilitating.  Several prominent office health and ergonomic studies tout prolonged sitting as the “smoking” of our generation due to the increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and even cancer and chronic back pain that have been linked to those sitting all day at typical desk jobs.  New studies suggest that standing at a properly designed desk for up to 30% of your workday is a healthier solution.  Many are now asking the obvious question, ‘So, if standing is better than sitting for part of my day, what do I stand on?’

An ergonomically-designed anti-fatigue mat is an effective way to alleviate pain and fatigue associated with standing work. Producer, SATECH, Inc. has provided a solution for standing desk users.  SmartCells anti-fatigue mats provide an optimized compressibility that is stable and responds dynamically to subtle and overt movements of the body.  Typical soft and squishy mats do not provide the right compressibility, are often unstable, and frequently bottom-out aggravating the very problems the users are seeking to solve with a floor mat.

The new challenge standing desk users have encountered is not only finding the mat with the proper ergonomic design for their “standing” activities, but also finding one that looks good in an office or home environment.

“I went from carpet tiles to my yoga mat and eventually started stacking layers of foam that just kept getting higher and higher and looks terrible,” says Sean Airhart, a recent SmartCells convert. “The day I got my SmartCells Mat, I found immediate relief and an elegant solution…and the pain has not returned.”

The enhanced SmartCells anti-fatigue lineup redefines comfort and blends the effectiveness of SmartCells renowned anti-fatigue mats with a professional /decorative style for office and in-home use. SATECH proudly offers three different tasteful and creative surfaces: classic, basket-weave and carpet-top. The mats are available in several different variations of color and size.

SmartCells Anti-Fatigue mats are an elegant upgrade for your home and office.

SmartCells® cushioning technology consists of a rubber surface layer integrated with an underlying array of cylindrical rubber cells that soften in response to surface pressure to provide maximum fatigue relief. The SmartCells act like springs that cushion as weight is applied and then rebound when the weight shifts, which returns energy and reduces fatigue associated with standing.

“Our customers recognize that SmartCells mats not only keep you comfortable while you stand AT work but also help you conserve energy so that AFTER work you’ll want to do more than just lay on the couch,” says Bryce Betteridge, President of SATECH, Inc. “Our new product enhancements are an exciting solution for standing desk users at home or the office.”

Remaining comfortable while standing up to “sitting” has never been easier with the addition of SATECH, Inc.’s online retail store in which consumers can view the different variations of SmartCells mats, learn about the technology, and determine which solution is the best fit for them.
SATECH Inc. is a technology company that specializes in the development and marketing of SmartCells cushioning solutions that enhance performance, reduce fatigue and help prevent fall-related injuries. SmartCells mats and flooring have broad application in the industrial workplace, healthcare markets, and everyday consumer households. For more information, please call (360) 748-8711, visit www.smartcellsusa.com , or view the following video: https://www.smartcellsusa.com/technology/videos/ .

 

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SATECH’s New SmartCells website is a Smart Website for Health and Productivity

Chehalis, Wash.

The same technology trusted by leading companies to reduce back, knee and foot pain and improve productivity, as well as reduce fall-related injuries in frail populations is now available to the everyday consumer through SATECH’s  dynamic, new website, www.smartcellsusa.com . The website embraces an all-new look for the SmartCells brand cushioning technology and a user-friendly interface.

“The new look reflects our continued desire to provide outstanding products and create the best customer experience,” says Al Shelley, Vice President of SATECH Inc.

The new SmartCells website includes several new features such as: all-new e-commerce and “Everyday Use” pages, enhanced navigation bars, links to additional resources, customer testimonials, an updated blog, comparative information, research and data related to SmartCells cushioning technology and links to SmartCells social media sites.

The site functionality allows customers to view and purchase SmartCells products from the convenience and comfort of their home or office. Consumers also have the ability to obtain product specifications, view pictures of the broad range of SmartCells applications and connect with marketing specialists to learn more about SmartCells products and discuss all of their options.

In the past, SmartCells have been primarily used in professional or industrial applications however, SATECH Inc. believes that the benefits and versatility of SmartCells cushioning technology goes beyond those professional applications and extends to the everyday consumer. SmartCells products have many practical uses around the house including: kitchen and bath mats, garage and housework kneeling mats and fall protection mats for seniors or those with disabilities. In order to reach this market SATECH has added the “Everyday Use” section to the new website.

Searching for anti-fatigue or fall-protection mats can become overwhelming, confusing, and often misguiding, so the site provides education for consumers and seeks to squelch the common notion that soft, squishy mats are effective.  The addition of the research/data, customer testimonials, and the links/resources pages enables the consumer to have a better understanding of what they should look for when purchasing anti-fatigue or fall-protection matting or flooring.

In an effort to highlight the significant differences between SmartCells cushioning technology and other anti-fatigue mats, the site features the “Hall of Shame” page which encourages customers to take pictures of “shameful” anti-fatigue and fall protection mats that may be posted on the website.

SmartCellsUSA.com utilizes several social media networks and presents a blog in an effort to increase and cultivate conversations, excitement, and awareness of the SmartCells brand cushioning technology online, including links to YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. SATECH Inc. also utilizes LinkedIn as another avenue to reach business professionals.

Partnered with Marketing Puget Sound and a team of media consultants, SATECH Inc. spent months researching and testing innovative website ideas to enhance the customer experience.

With its enhanced user interface, bold new look, and user-friendly navigation tools the new SmartCells website placed third in Marketing Northwest’s Annual Marketing Awards “Best New Consumer Media” category.

SATECH encourages you to explore the new website, www.smartcellsusa.com , and “friend” or “follow us” on your preferred social media site and subscribe to the new e-newsletter. SATECH, Inc. encourages your feedback in order to continue to provide an enhanced customer experience that is second to none.

SATECH Inc. is a technology company that specializes in the development and marketing of SmartCells cushioning-technology solutions that enhance performance, reduce fatigue and help prevent fall-related injuries. SmartCells cushioning technology has broad application in the industrial workplace, healthcare markets and everyday consumer households. For more information, please call (360) 748-8711, visit www.smartcellsusa.com , or view the following video: https://www.smartcellsusa.com/technology/videos/ .

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Study Finds a Significantly Reduced Fracture Rate for Falls on SmartCells Cushioning Technology

Falls in older adults are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Older adults living in nursing homes are three times as likely to fall as those living in the community. Rapp et al estimated the rate of falls to be about 1.6 per nursing home bed per year. Falls in this population lead to fractures approximately once every 20 falls. Beyond the significant impact falls have on the resident, falls with injury are also responsible for about 60% of liability cases filed against nursing homes.

Since 1988, numerous studies have suggested that the wearing of hip protectors can reduce the fracture rates related to falls. A recent Cochrane review, however, found only a marginally significant reduction in hip fracture risk in the use of hip protectors in nursing homes, but not in the community. Furthermore, compliance with the wearing of hip protectors is not very high.

An alternative approach to having each resident wear a hip protector could be to design a safer floor. Dual-stiffness flooring (DSF) has a rigid top layer and a collapsible lower layer. The intent is that the top layer provides support like a regular floor, while the collapsibility of the lower layer acts as a shock absorber. A number of biomechanical studies have suggested that DSF diminishes the impact of contact with a floor, potentially reducing injuries associated with falls. More recent studies have further supported these findings in people.Given that about 75% of falls in a nursing home occur in residents’ rooms, including the bathroom, it would make sense to install DSF in residents’ rooms. To our knowledge, there are no publications to date from a controlled study comparing injury rates on regular flooring with that on DSF in a nursing home setting.

Results

Over the study period, there were 449 documented falls. There were 82 falls on the DSF, and these were compared with the first 85 identified by taking every third of the remaining 282 falls on regular flooring. Fallers had a mean age of 74.2 years; 53% were male and 24% were on medication for osteoporosis. On average, these patients took 10 medications. Fifty-five percent of falls resulted in an injury and 26% in a significant injury, defined as abrasion, cut, fracture, or two or more injuries. Patients allocated to DSF flooring rooms were comparable with their counterparts in the regular flooring rooms on the previously mentioned factors except that they were significantly younger and took significantly fewer medications; these factors were thus treated as covariates in the analyses. There was a marked tendency for residents falling on DSF to have less bruising and abrasions while having more redness and cuts. There were two fractures on regular flooring (2.4% fracture rate) and none on the DSF flooring (0% fracture rate).

The complete report can be found here:

Dual Stiffness Research Report

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SmartCells Carpet Top Mat Receives Five-Star Rating from About.com

Since I had tested a SmartCells anti-fatigue mat in the past, I was already familiar with the SmartCells Cushioning Technology, so I expected the same stable, non-squishy support and I wasn’t disappointed. While some anti-fatigue brands go for a soft style of cushioning that can feel like you’re walking on sand (fatiguing

at times), SmartCells mats are dense but supportive, and you feel more energetic while you’re standing on one. So this test was no different in that respect.We positioned this mat at the kitchen sink where we tend to spend a lot of time. While the support met our expectations, what was surprising was the extra layer of cushioning that the carpet top provides. We did not expect that much difference, but it adds another level of comfort. The carpet is a Berber-type low pile similar to what we have in our family room. This mat sure looks lovely and the carpet top makes this industrial-grade mat look like it belongs in the home – a stylish upgrade.

The carpeting insert is partially recessed and the total height is still under an inch. The carpet is actually held into place by double-face tape, so when it needs to be changed over time, that will be easy to do. However, the carpet may fray – it looks likely and will probably need a little trim, if the fibers loosen at the edges. This normally would bother me, but I really like the extra comfort and the fact that the carpet can be easily replaced. So I find this a little trade-off of sorts. Of course, you’ll have to clean the carpet as needed, whereas you can just wipe a regular non-carpeted SmartCells mat. So that may be a consideration for some.

Another very nice feature of this mat is the wide rubber trim that provides an easy transition to the mat. The edge is firm and it stays put without curling or causing a tripping hazard. The mat stays well in place, having only moved about a couple of inches over a few days on vinyl flooring. I find this very reasonable and much better than some.

Faced with deciding between the carpet top or a standard SmartCells model (no carpet), we’d chose the carpeted mat without hesitation. My hubby’s first remark when he stepped on it?: “I wish the whole floor was like this”.

Overall Impression

The carpet top is an excellent stylish upgrade for the SmartCells mat. Now the anti-fatigue mat not only feels great but looks like it belongs in the kitchen. We both highly recommend this mat, it’s essential for anyone who has or wants to prevent back, knee or foot pain while standing at the counter. And I love the tan pattern.

Reviewed By: Mariette Mifflin, About.com Guide

Links

About.Com Full Review

Interface FLOR Brings SMARTCELLS Cushioning Technology to the Healthcare Market

(LAGRANGE, GA—MAY, 2011)—A flooring system that has been shown to help reduce fall-related injuries is about to make its way into the healthcare [A1] market thanks to an agreement reached between InterfaceFLOR, LLC, North America’s leading manufacturer of modular carpet tile, and SATECH, Inc., developers of SmartCells cushioning technology. In signing the deal, InterfaceFLOR becomes the exclusive soft flooring manufacturer to offer the proven fall protection surface that SmartCells provide.

“This launch represents the marriage of two proven leaders in their respective fields and an exciting new era for healthcare environments as we introduce a flooring system with significant preventative benefits,” said John Wells, Interface Americas President & CEO. “InterfaceFLOR has distinguished itself the past 37 years with a portfolio of innovative products, and in teaming with SATECH and adding SmartCells to an InterfaceFLOR installation, we’re achieving our goal to create aesthetically pleasing interiors for healthcare facilities while helping to reduce injuries from falls. With this breakthrough, we’re expecting to help play a significant role in reducing ever-increasing healthcare costs.”

In fact, it was compelling statistics, such as skyrocketing healthcare costs, that catalyzed the collaboration between InterfaceFLOR and SATECH. Injurious and fatal falls have been a growing concern for hospitals, assisted living and healthcare facilities, and the situation has become especially acute as the “boomer” generation now swells the ranks of the aging population. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that between 30 and 40 percent of people over the age of 65 fall each year, and approximately 40 percent are repeat fallers. In addition, nearly 90 percent of hip fractures are due to falls. Approximately 20 percent of older adults hospitalized for a hip fracture die within a year, and about 50 percent will suffer a major decline in independence.  For facility administrators, falls and related injuries result in high insurance costs and potentially expose the facility to fall-related lawsuits.

“Our SmartCells cushioning technology provides a stable surface for normal day-to-day activities that softens upon impact, thus giving it a unique dual-stiffness characteristic,” said SATECH President Bryce Betteridge. “The flooring surface has been shown to reduce fall-related injuries.  In many cases, preventing a hip fracture or concussion becomes a life-saving intervention for our elderly.”

While SmartCells adds significantly to the InterfaceFLOR benefits, the modular carpet tile company consistently has provided “go-to”  flooring solutions for the healthcare sector, and its products represent a preferred alternative to other flooring surfaces for a variety of reasons.  InterfaceFLOR carpet tiles allow effective compliance with infection control procedures and standards. Hazardous spills are easily addressed because the affected tile (or tiles) can simply be replaced and the area properly decontaminated and sanitized by housekeeping or maintenance staff without having to call in a floor covering specialist. What’s more, since all InterfaceFLOR carpet tiles incorporate its proprietary preservative, Intersept®, the carpet is also protected against mold, odor, bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Then, there’s the distinct advantage that neither InterfaceFLOR carpet nor SmartCells require use of glue for installation, which reduces the mess, odor, VOCs, and reduce the need to relocate patients or staff during the installation or replacement process. Furthermore, the dimensional stability of InterfaceFLOR’s modular carpet tile also is well-established in the industry.  Mobility tests involving hospital beds, gurneys, wheelchairs, carts and equipment have shown resistance rates on par with hard surfaces, yet carpet tile is a more resilient and forgiving option that also offers anti-fatigue protection for caregivers. Acoustically, of course, carpet tile is a preferable alternative to hard surfaces, and this positively impacts the overall comfort and healing environment that is a prerequisite for a healthcare facility. Some studies show that in those facilities where the acoustics are better, hospital stays are 15 percent shorter and there are 25 percent fewer staff errors.

Another valued feature of InterfaceFLOR carpet tile is the inherent sustainability of the tiles. Many of the company’s products and its manufacturing processes included features that are designed to help lower the environmental footprint of a facility.

About InterfaceFLOR

InterfaceFLOR, LLC and InterfaceFLOR Canada, Inc, are a subsidiaries of Interface, Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of commercial carpet tile. For 38 years, the company has consistently led the industry through innovation and now leads the industry in environmental sustainability. InterfaceFLOR is setting the pace for development of modular carpet using materials and processes that take less from the environment, and is well along the path to “Mission Zero®,” the company’s promise to eliminate any negative impact it has on the environment by the year 2020. InterfaceFLOR’s worldwide carpet manufacturing facilities maintain third party registration to the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System standard, and the company obtained the first-ever Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for the commercial floor covering industry in North America. The company is recognized globally for its commitment to build environmental considerations into its business decisions. For additional information, please visit :

 

www.interfaceflor.com

youtube.com/interfaceflorna

facebook.com/interfaceflor

 

About SATECH, Inc.

SATECH is a technology company that specializes in the development and marketing of SmartCells® ergonomic and cushioned flooring solutions that enhance performance and reduce fatigue and fall-related injuries. SmartCells technology has broad application in the industrial workplace and health care markets. For more information, please call (360) 748-8711.

 [A1]SmartCells Fall Protection has been in the Healthcare market for quite some time.  This, however, is an introduction of “the system” of SATECH + Interface FLOR