Ground protection mats provide many benefits to project managers and owners, such as safety and efficiency. But they also benefit another important stakeholder: the environment.

Why is ground protection important?

Reducing the environmental impact of a construction, pipeline or utility project is mandatory in many cases, but that’s not the only reason to prioritize sustainable practices. Ground protection mats also help protect the land, your crew and your reputation.

Protect the land

National and regional environmental regulations mandate that certain measures be taken to protect waterways. In some cases, additional regulations might be in place to protect endangered plant or animal life. Ground protection mats are a critical piece of the puzzle when developing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and implementing other compliance strategies.

Additionally, soil compaction contributes to stormwater runoff that pollutes waterways and affects wildlife habitats. Using ground protection mats distributes the weight of heavy equipment to prevent this compaction without causing long-term damage to the plants below. Ground protection mats also help prevent the spread of invasive species, which is an important factor for the protection of native wildlife.

Protect your crew

Ground protection mats provide consistent and level temporary access roads and work surfaces to create a safe environment for the people working at the site. Without mats, the ground can become muddy or slippery, creating potential hazards for workers. Ground protection mats also make it easier for crews to comply with environmental regulations because they enable the safe and low-impact transport of people, heavy equipment and materials.

Protect your reputation

In addition to complying with regulations, reducing the environmental impact at your project sites can also help protect your reputation. When accessing sites through right of ways, it is important (and often a contractual obligation) to return the ground to its original condition once the project is complete. Without mats, you may have to restore soil, replant crops or grasses or make other landscape repairs. Using ground protection mats allows you to keep sites clean and tidy with minimal environmental restoration at the end of a project. This attention to the environment reflects well on your brand and helps keep clients and landowners happy.

Different mats for different terrains

Depending on the characteristics of the site and the nature of the project, there are a range of ground protection mats that can be used to reduce the environmental impact.

Heavy-duty ground protection mats

Made from hardwood timbers or composite materials, heavy-duty ground protection mats can be used for temporary roadways, parking pads, staging areas or storage areas. Even when the terrain is flat and firm, transporting heavy equipment and materials causes soil compaction and damages root systems. Using heavy-duty mats reduces this impact and creates safe access for crews and equipment.

Light-duty ground protection mats

Areas with frequent foot or light-duty vehicle traffic benefit from lightweight mats that distribute weight, provide traction and are easy to move around the site as needed. Whether they’re made from a composite materials or cross-laminated timber, having these types of mats on-hand makes it easier to reduce your environmental impact.

Bridge mats

When accessing the site requires crossing sensitive streams or waterways, timber bridge mats provide a safe, non-slip surface for heavy equipment to cross without damaging the surrounding environment.

Trackout control mats

Trackout control mats are used at the entrances and exits of project sites to remove dirt and other debris from tires, tracks and equipment. This helps reduce the environmental impact of a project by reducing the risk of transferring invasive species. Additional measures can also be implemented, as needed, to ensure that no plant matter or dirt are transferred to or from the site.

Tap into United Rentals' environmental expertise

When it comes to site access and ground protection, our team has seen it all. From creating a floating road across a sensitive waterway to leaving endangered species undisturbed near a power line project, we have the proven expertise and experience to implement innovative and effective site access solutions while protecting the environment.

Contact United Rentals today to receive a quote or to learn more about our ground protection mat rentals.