Birmingham, UK: Amid all the brouhaha about “state-of-the-art equipment” in the cold chain, an essential tool often goes unnoticed: the humble Tacky Mat. But they play a crucial role in maintaining safety and hygiene, says Richard O’Connor, marketing director at First Mats.
Tacky Mats, also known as sticky mats or adhesive mats, capture and contain dust, dirt, and other particulates from foot traffic and wheeled machinery. Comprised of multiple layers of sticky sheets, these mats are an effective barrier to contamination, ensuring the cleanliness of controlled environments is uncompromised.
“Each layer is coated with a specially formulated adhesive strong enough to capture debris and fine particles but not so strong as to interfere with mobility. Once a layer becomes saturated with debris, it is simply peeled off to reveal a fresh layer underneath, thus maintaining the mat’s functionality over time.” O’Connor says.
The mats play a vital role in temperature-controlled transport and distribution in their ability to minimise contamination by:
- Enhancing Hygiene
Many temperature-controlled goods, especially in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, require stringent hygiene protocols. Introducing foreign particles into the environment can lead to spoilage, cross-contamination, or even cause reactions that may alter the properties of goods. Tacky Mats at entry and exit points help trap these contaminants, preventing them from migrating deeper into the storage or transport area. - Protecting Equipment
Debris from shoes and wheels can cause wear and tear on the flooring and transport equipment, which could lead to higher maintenance costs or even equipment failure. Tacky Mats capture this debris, prolonging your equipment’s lifespan and reducing the need for frequent maintenance or repairs. - Preserving Thermal Efficiency
Finally, dust and debris can impact the efficiency of cooling systems, leading to higher energy costs. By keeping these particulates to a minimum, Tacky Mats can indirectly contribute to the thermal efficiency of the storage or transport environment.
“While Tacky Mats might not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering the complex operations of temperature-controlled transport and distribution, their role is undeniable. They help ensure cleanliness, safety, and efficiency within this crucial sector. As the industry continues to expand and evolve, these mats will remain an integral part of maintaining the highest standards of operation. In the grand scheme of the cold chain, it’s the little things that can make a big difference,” O’Connor says.
