Building and Construction Mats

Safety Features of Building and Construction Mats

Safety is usually the primary consideration when choosing mats for the building and construction industry. Frequently the requirement is for mats to have a high-traction surface to ensure that workers or other personnel won’t slip.

Trips and falls are also a safety concern around construction sites and it is important that the matting you choose does not lead to additional trip concerns. You should choose mats with low profiles, ramped edges and mats that contour to the surface, so there are no raised edges that could pose a trip hazard.

Also of consideration are the anti-fatigue features of the mat to reduce strain on feet, legs, and back caused by long-term standing.

Recommended mats: Heronair Anti Fatigue Roll Matting, Rubber Ramp Mat

Look for Durability and Weather Resistance

When selecting building and construction mats, you should look for products that are durable and able to withstand extreme conditions. Mats used outdoors must be able to stand up to weather, debris, or heavy traffic without deteriorating. Look for products made from strong materials like rubber or PVC that will not crack, peel, or warp over time.

Also consider water resistance as some mats can become slippery when wet and create a safety hazard. In wet areas, or when exposed to rain, choose mats with drainage / flow through holes, which will not pool water on the mat surface resulting in a safer non-slip surface.

Understand Different Material Types and Prices

Knowing the types of materials used in building and construction mats available is important. Mats typically range from rubber to PVC to plastic, with each type offering its own unique benefits in terms of durability and cost effectiveness. Rubber mats are generally among the most durable and waterproof, while PVC mats tend to be more affordable. Plastic materials may also offer value but there is a risk of heat warping in hot weather or becoming brittle in cold weather. If colour is important, bear in mind that UV rays fade colours over time, particularly red colours.

Prices will vary based on the quality and size you choose, so be sure to compare options before purchasing an option that works best for your budget.

Heavy Dirt and Mud Removal

Heavy mud, grit and sand are commonplace on building sites and, if left uncontrolled, can be tracked around the site on footwear, equipment and vehicles. Scraper mats are useful for removing soil from footwear and should be placed at entrances to all buildings around the construction site. An external scraper mat can be combined with an internal barrier entrance mat to make an even more effective entrance mat system that removes heavy mud, dirt and moisture.

Recommended mats: Rubber Ramp Mat, Aqua Barrier Entrance Mat

Floor Protection, Dust Removal

Building and Construction Mats can help to contain dirt and dust to protect new or surrounding floor areas from damage. Long roll mats can be used for walkways to protect the floor underneath and entrance mats can be used to control heavy dirt and mud.

Specialist tacky mats can be used to remove fine dirt and dust particles from footwear. The adhesive layer on these mats removes and holds onto fine dirt. The layers are peeled away and disposed of when they become saturated with soil to reveal a fresh mat layer beneath.

Recommended mats: Fine Ribbed Rubber Roll Mats,  Clean Step Tack Mats

Designated Walkways for Safety

Roll mats can be used for highlighting walkways and areas where personnel are safe to move or operate. These mats tend to be made in high visibility colours or feature borders which clearly mark the designated safe path.

Recommended mats: Vynagrip Anti-Slip Roll Mats with Borders

Ground Protection and Soil Stabilisation

Building and construction sites often see frequent movement of heavy vehicles, equipment and personnel which can lead to damage of the ground below. This is a particular issue on marshy ground or ground made of soil, sand or turf. Mats can be used to protect the ground from damage and also to give stability to the soil and provide a safer surface.

For pathways, roll mats can be used for ground protection and floor stability. For larger areas tiled mat systems are the preferred choice.

Larger vehicles require specialist Ground Protection mats, often heavy, robust tiles that can be connected to create temporary driveways and roads.

Recommended mats: Wide Ribbed Rubber Roll Mats,  Interlock Flow Tiles