Safety mats (also "shut-off mats") are safety devices around CNC-machining centers, which are intended to prevent the operator to enter particular areas. Shut-off mats are pressure sensitive and turn the machine off (emergency stop) as soon as a person are object is on them. For working with multiple processing tables, the mats can be divided into different zones. Usually, there is a left and a right zone, which is either turned on or off depending on the active work field, as well as a security zone in the middle, which is active at all time.

Advantages

• Simple and easy installation
• No alignment necessary
• No obstruction to the sides, as with light barriers

Disadvantages

• Restricted working area for the operator because of security zone in the middle
• Increased demand on space, compared to bumpers
• If malfunction occurs, mostly a complete mat segment needs to be replaced (costs)