introduces different loading conditions and operational requirements. Treating them the same often leads to performance issues or increased risk.
DICA is a provider of outrigger pads, crane pads and cribbing blocks for a range of applications.
Laydown or staging areas are used to establish a uniform surface for positioning materials prior to use. These areas are often subject to static loads over extended periods. In addition to supporting weight, they must allow for safe rigging and handling. In some cases, materials are elevated using cribbing to allow access for slings or rigging hardware.
Each of these applications
Selecting Ground Protection
Once the application, equipment and ground conditions are understood, the focus shifts to selecting site access mats that provide the required support for equipment, ground conditions and duration of the project.
For applications involving repeated traffic or longer durations, stability is critical. Access mats must remain in place and function as a continuous surface, minimizing movement and reducing the need for ongoing adjustment. Mats that connect to each other become an important consideration, which improves consistency and can reduce localized stress.
On uneven or variable terrain, the ability of mats to conform to the surface improves contact and
September 2026 • www. thepartsconnection. org • 17