Do You Need to Install Electrical Insulating Mats Across the Entire Room? | ElectroMer®

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Do You Need to Install Electrical Insulating Mats Across the Entire Room?
An Engineering-Based Guide for MDB & Electrical Control Rooms

Electrical insulating rubber mats are the last line of protection for technicians working in high-risk electrical areas such as MDB rooms, Switchgear rooms, and high-voltage control zones.

But the most frequently asked question among procurement teams, safety officers, and factory engineers is:

“Do we need to install electrical insulating mats across the entire floor, or only in front of the electrical panels?”

This article provides a clear, engineering-based answer referencing IEC 61111, along with real-world practices from industrial facilities.

1. The Correct Standard Practice:
Installing Mats Only in Front of MDB Panels is Generally Sufficient
Based on Risk Assessment principles and standard engineering practices, the highest electrical shock risk always occurs at points of Human Interaction, where technicians stand and operate electrical equipment. These include:

In front of MDB and Switchgear panels
Areas where panels must be opened for PM (Preventive Maintenance)
Zones with exposed Busbars or Live Parts

Therefore, installing electrical insulating mats specifically at the points where technicians stand to work is considered compliant, safe, and fully aligned with international best practices.

2. Do You Need Mats Behind the Electrical Panels?
This depends on the design and accessibility of the electrical room. Consider these two factors:

(A) Accessibility for Maintenance

Panels installed directly against the wall: No rear access - Mats are not required.
Walkway behind the panels: Mats should be installed for technician safety.

(B) Frequency of Service Behind the Panels

If the rear of the panel includes components that require regular maintenance e.g., MCCBs, Busbar chambers, wiring then rear installation is recommended for safety.

3. Installing Insulating Mats Across the Entire Room
A Premium Safety Option for High-Reliability Facilities
Although not legally mandatory, many industries aiming for Zero Accident and World-Class Safety prefer to install mats across the entire room. These industries often include:

Data Centers
Petrochemical Facilities
Pharmaceutical Plants
Power Plants
Global OEM Factories

Reasons include:

(1) Total Safety: Ensures full-room protection even in unexpected leakage or step-potential conditions.

(2) Multi-User Support: Safe regardless of where each technician stands.

(3) Accident Prevention: Insulating mats also provide anti-slip performance and cushioning to reduce impact from falls.

(4) Professional Look: Full-room installation creates a clean, organized electrical space—ideal for 5S, OEM audits, and global safety standards.

Comparison Table: Which Installation Method Is Right for Your Facility?

Installation Style	Safety Level	Recommended For
Front of Panels Only	(Standard)	General factories, budget-conscious projects
Front & Rear of Panels	(High)	Facilities with walkways or frequent rear maintenance
Full Room Installation	(Premium)	Data Centers, high-safety plants, audit-critical facilities

Before Installation: 4 Things You Must Check

(1) Match the Correct Class to System Voltage: Always choose an IEC 61111 Class that exceeds your actual operating voltage.

(2) Verified Test Report is Essential: Ensure the mats come with certified test results from a trusted lab.

(3) Surface Preparation: The floor must be flat, clean, free from sharp debris, and free from oil.

(4) Choose the Right Surface Texture: Smooth, fine-ribbed, or coin-pattern textures should be selected based on the cleaning method and slip-resistance needed.

Final Answer: Do You Need to Cover the Entire Room?
No - it is not mandatory.
But yes - it is beneficial.

Front-of-panel installation = Compliant and sufficient
Front + rear installation = Safer for maintenance accessibility
Full-room installation = Highest level of safety, ideal for world-class facilities

Need Expert Guidance?
ElectroMer^® Engineers Can Help You Plan the Installation
If you're unsure how many meters you need or which Class is appropriate, our Sales Engineers are ready to assist—free of charge.

On-site or drawing-based assessment

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Area calculation + quotation within 24 hours