minimizes scenarios where the mat is unsupported, and not in direct contact with the ground. This helps prevent localized failures. Mats help distribute loads, but they may not be able to compensate for all unknown subsurface conditions.
When working in ground that is water saturated such as marshes and swampy areas, selecting mats that connect and are buoyant is a critically important consideration. In many cases several layers of mats are required to provide the necessary support for equipment where there is little to no support from the ground. In these cases, creating a continuous interlocking surface is essential. Buoyancy helps provide additional support which prevents mats from getting stuck in the mud.
Traditional materials such as timber mats and steel plates are often used for site access. Timber can lack uniformity, resulting in inconsistent support. Steel plates can deform and do not transfer loads between plates, causing each piece to act independently.
Engineered mats provide consistent and predictable performance.
Common Missteps One of the most common misconceptions is that employing ground protection or site access mats automatically resolves ground-related challenges. In reality, effectiveness is limited by the conditions beneath them and how they function together as a system.
Access mats that are not connected may shift and will behave independently under load. This becomes particularly important with tracked equipment, where turning forces can cause individual mats to move or slide out of position if they are not connected.
Another common issue is assuming uniform conditions across a site. Ground conditions often vary, especially on construction sites where excavation and backfill create inconsistencies. Identifying these variations early and selecting the right products for each area is essential to avoid
18 • 800-247-2000 • September 2026