When working on outdoor job sites, the ground is often your biggest challenge. It might be muddy, soft, or uneven — making it hard for vehicles and heavy machines to move safely. That’s where access mats come in. They give you a solid surface to work on, protect the ground underneath, and keep your project running smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll talk about how to use access mats the right way, why they’re so important, and what you should know before setting them up.
What Are Access Mats?
Access mats are strong, flat platforms made from materials like wood, steel, or composite. They’re built to handle heavy loads and provide a stable surface for construction equipment, trucks, and workers.
You’ll see access mats used in construction, oil and gas projects, utility work, and other outdoor sites where the ground can’t support machinery on its own. They prevent vehicles from getting stuck, protect the environment, and make operations safer and faster.
Whether you’re setting up a pipeline or building a road, access mats help you work without damaging the land.
Why Ground Protection Matters
Ground protection isn’t just about keeping things clean — it’s about safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. When heavy equipment moves across soft soil, it can leave deep ruts, compact the ground, and cause erosion.
Without access mats, you might spend extra time and money fixing damage or dealing with stuck vehicles. Mats spread the weight of machinery evenly, reducing pressure on the soil and preventing costly repairs.
For companies that care about sustainability and safety, ground protection with access mats is a must.
How to Use Access Mats for Ground Protection
Using access mats is simple, but doing it correctly ensures safety and long-lasting performance. Follow these steps for proper installation and care:
1. Inspect the Site
Start by walking through the worksite. Check for uneven ground, wet areas, or hidden obstacles. This helps you plan where to place the mats and how many you’ll need.
Planning saves time later and ensures the mats provide full coverage where it’s needed most.
2. Prepare the Surface
Before placing the mats, clear the area of large rocks, tree roots, or debris. A flat surface helps the mats sit evenly, giving you better stability.
If the ground is too soft, consider adding a thin layer of gravel or sand to help support the mats. This small step can make a big difference in performance.
3. Lay the Mats Carefully
Now, begin placing the access mats. Start at the entry point and work your way into the site. Make sure the mats are aligned tightly together to avoid gaps that could cause equipment to sink or shift.
Depending on your mat type, you might need to connect them with cables, bolts, or hooks. For large sites, use machinery like forklifts or loaders to position the mats safely.
Always follow proper safety rules during this step.
4. Check for Stability
Once your mats are placed, test the area. Drive a smaller vehicle over the mats first to make sure they’re secure and stable. If you notice movement or sinking, add more mats or adjust their alignment.
Stable mats mean safe movement for all vehicles and workers on-site.
5. Maintain During Use
Check your access mats regularly. Dirt, oil, and moisture can make them slippery or wear them down faster. Clean them as needed and replace damaged mats right away.
Routine checks help prevent accidents and extend the lifespan of your mats.
6. Remove and Store Properly
When your project is done, clean the mats before storing them. Dirt, oil, or chemicals can weaken them over time.
Store mats on level ground in a dry area. Proper storage means you can reuse them for many years — saving money on replacements.
Types of Access Mats
Not all mats are the same. Depending on your project, you can choose from several types of access mats:
1. Wooden Access Mats
Made from hardwood or mixed timber, these are strong and cost-effective. They’re great for construction and drilling sites.
2. Laminated Mats
These are lightweight and easy to move. They’re best for temporary roads and lighter equipment.
3. Composite Mats
Composite mats are made from durable plastic materials. They don’t rot, absorb water, or splinter, making them ideal for long-term use and wet conditions.
4. Steel Mats
If your project involves very heavy equipment like cranes, steel mats are the best choice. They’re the strongest type available.
5. Hybrid Mats
Hybrid mats combine wood and composite materials for both strength and flexibility. They work well in diverse environments.
Benefits of Using Access Mats
There are many advantages to using access mats on any project:
1. Ground Protection
Access mats protect the ground from damage caused by trucks, cranes, and drilling equipment. This helps prevent soil erosion and environmental harm.
2. Safety
Workers can move more confidently on stable ground. There’s less risk of slipping, sinking, or equipment tipping over.
3. Cost Efficiency
By preventing damage and delays, access mats help you save money in the long run. They also reduce maintenance costs for your equipment.
4. Quick Installation
Access mats are easy to install and remove, saving valuable time on projects with tight deadlines.
5. Reusability
High-quality mats can last through multiple projects, making them an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though access mats are easy to use, people often make a few mistakes that shorten their lifespan or reduce their effectiveness:
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Skipping ground inspection before installation.
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Not connecting the mats properly.
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Overloading mats beyond their rated capacity.
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Failing to clean or maintain them regularly.
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Storing them on uneven or wet ground.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures your mats last longer and perform better.
Where to Use Access Mats
You can use access mats in many different industries, including:
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Construction sites – For cranes, trucks, and heavy machines.
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Oil and gas fields – To support drilling and pipeline work.
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Utility projects – For powerline or telecom installations.
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Forestry operations – To protect soft or wet ground.
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Events and temporary roads – For crowd control and stability.
Basically, if your site has heavy machinery and soft ground, access mats are the perfect solution.
Choosing the Right Access Mats
When choosing access mats, think about:
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Weight capacity: How heavy your equipment is.
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Material type: Wood, composite, or steel.
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Weather conditions: Wet, dry, or extreme cold.
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Duration of use: Temporary or long-term projects.
If you’re unsure, talk to professionals who specialize in ground protection solutions.
At Onyx Access, we help customers choose the right access mats for every job. Whether you need them for rent or purchase, we offer durable and affordable options across Kingston, Ontario.
Conclusion
Using access mats is one of the smartest ways to protect your ground and equipment. They provide stability, safety, and long-term savings for any project site.
From construction to oilfields, access mats keep your operations running smoothly — no matter the weather or soil conditions.
By choosing high-quality mats and taking care of them properly, you’ll save time, money, and effort while protecting the environment.
For reliable, heavy-duty access mats, contact Onyx Access today — your trusted ground protection partner in Kingston, Ontario.
5 FAQs About Access Mats
1. What are access mats used for?
Access mats are used to create temporary roads or stable work surfaces on soft or uneven ground.
2. How long do access mats last?
With proper cleaning and care, access mats can last for several years and be reused across multiple projects.
3. Can access mats handle heavy equipment?
Yes, most access mats are designed to support heavy machinery like cranes, trucks, and excavators.
4. Are access mats environmentally friendly?
Yes, access mats protect soil and vegetation from damage and help prevent erosion.
5. Where can I find access mats for my project?
You can get high-quality access mats from Onyx Access in Kingston, Ontario.