Glossary · Protective devices and interlocks
Pressure-sensitive mat
Also known as: safety mat, pressure-sensitive floor
German: Schaltmatte
In machine safety, a pressure-sensitive mat is a protective device that detects a person by applied pressure and initiates a protective function, such as stopping hazardous motion or preventing a start while someone stands in the zone.
- Machine safety
- Maintenance
In one sentence
A pressure-sensitive mat detects a person standing on it and stops or blocks the machine; it suits presence detection inside zones rather than fast approach.
Example
Pressure-sensitive mats cover the floor between a robot and its loading table, so that the robot cannot start while an operator stands in the loading area.
How it applies
- Machine safety: Mats are useful for detecting a person who remains inside a zone, which light curtains at the entrance cannot do. Their position still follows the minimum distance principles, because detection happens only when a person steps on the mat. ISO 13856-1 covers the design and testing of pressure-sensitive mats and floors.
- Design: Edges, ramps and joins between mats must not create a trip hazard or undetected gaps. Heavy traffic, forklifts and chemicals shorten mat life.
- Maintenance: Specify inspection for damage and a functional test at defined intervals; record the results as part of periodic verification.
- Technical documentation: State the detection area, minimum detectable weight where the manufacturer specifies one, and that objects must not be placed on the mat.