a folding floor mat that is formed from a plurality of panels formed from a resilient polymeric material and having a work surface and a grip surface . flexible hinge assemblies foldably join at least two of the panels along a fold boundary , which preferably incorporates a plurality of channels that are integrally formed in the work and grip surfaces . more preferably , the channels are laterally spaced apart about the grip and or work sides . even more preferably , the channel or channels formed in the work surface are staggered relative to the channel or channels formed in the grip surface . also , each channel is ideally shaped to optimize relief internal material stresses of the polymeric material during and after it has been folded . the folding mat is manufactured from any of a number of readily available thermoplastic and similarly capable materials that are resilient , flexible , and durable and resistant to abrasion wear and impervious to biological , food service , health care , and industrial fluids and substances including steam , high temperature water , cleaning fluids , petrochemicals , animal fats , biological fluids , cooking oils and greases , and raw and prepared agricultural food stuffs . in the most preferably configuration , the folding mat is sized to be folded to have a maximum folded dimension compatible for cleaning in , for example without limitation , food service and medical industry standard cleaning units such as dish washers and sterilization units .