External ground protection mats are indispensable pieces of equipment that are commonly used in the construction industry to protect the ground from heavy machinery, improve safety, and help with project efficiency.
If you are managing a construction site or working on a landscaping project, you must choose the correct ground protection.
In this guide, we delve into the importance of external ground protection and the different types of protection that are available.
What is external ground protection?
Ground protection prevents erosion or damage to existing ground surfaces, such as driveways or lawns. Construction workers need to use ground protection when heavy machinery is being used.
Ground protection materials are durable, non-slip surfaces that have been designed to not only protect the ground from heavy machinery but also the weather and foot traffic.
Which type of external ground protection is best for my project?
Construction projects vary, and choosing the correct ground protection material depends on many factors. You need to consider the ground conditions on the construction site, the type of traffic, and the weight of the traffic.
ALSO READ: A guide to temporary floor protection.
What are the benefits of external ground protection?
Prevents damage to ground
The main benefit of ground protection products is that they preserve the natural state of the ground. Mats and other ground protection materials help distribute the weight of heavy machinery or foot traffic, and this helps to reduce soil compaction, which can damage the ground and disrupt drainage.
Using ground protection on a construction site also means that you can guard against surface damage that is caused by vehicles and other equipment. This includes tyre ruts and tracks.
Cost-effective
The last thing businesses want to do during a construction project is to damage the customer's property and have to pay to repair it. By protecting the ground from damage, companies can avoid or minimise the costs associated with repairing or restoring the land after the project is completed.
Many ground protection products are reusable, making them a wise investment for construction firms and garden landscapers who might need to use them frequently.
Improves safety
Ground protection provides a stable and non-slip surface for workers and equipment, and this helps to reduce the risk of falls and slips. It can also give you access to areas that would otherwise be unsafe to get to, such as muddy, sandy, or unstable ground.
Meeting environmental regulations
There are strict regulations about protecting the environment during construction projects, and using ground protection can help ensure that you are complying with these laws. This will help you to avoid potential fines and other legal issues.
Versatile
External ground protection can be used in so many different settings, ranging from construction sites and temporary roadways to the floor at events.
Quick to install and remove
If you need to use ground protection on a construction site, another huge benefit is the fact that they are quick and easy to install and remove. This can help a project to proceed more efficiently.
ALSO READ: A guide to temporary surface protection for delicate finishes
What are the different types of external ground protection?
There are a variety of ground protection products that you can use, and below is a guide to the different products available.
· Heavy Duty Access Mats: This high-quality mat is made from 100% recycled HDPE, and equipment or vehicles weighing up to 80 tonnes can use it. They are very versatile and are a popular choice for many large construction sites.
· Hi-Vis Ground Mats: These heavy-duty ground mats are designed to stand out on sites with low light and low visibility. They clearly mark access routes, have non-slip surfaces for both vehicles and pedestrians, and as they weigh 36 kg each, they can be easily laid by two people.
· Safe Site Matting: Its interlocking design means it is quick and easy to assemble and safe to install. These mats can be used on any surface and are perfect for use as walkways or crossing points over roads.
· Trackway Mats: Made from tough and durable HDPE, this ground protection material has non-slip patterns on both sides, and it is suitable for larger loads, up to 160 tonnes, depending on ground conditions.
· Premium Ground Protection Mats: Manufactured from 100% recycled LDPE, these mats are extremely versatile, and with two lifting handles on each end, they can easily be moved around a construction site. These mats are perfect for creating walkways and access routes for smaller plants, equipment & vehicles.
· Interlocking floor mats: This matting tile system is made from hard-wearing, impact-resistant recycled PVC. These mats are perfect for protecting flooring from heavy foot traffic, such as patios and decking.
· Damp Proof Membrane: Although this is predominantly used to prevent moisture from rising into a building, it can be used to protect newly laid floors and gardens.
ALSO READ: How to choose the right temporary protection materials
External ground protection equipment is a necessity for enhancing safety and protecting the ground. By choosing the correct products and following best practices, you can ensure the work you are doing is a success and doesn’t cause damage to the construction site.
Here at Beck, we have a selection of floor protection and external ground protection products that you can browse through. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
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