Ground protection mats are among the support materials that the OSHA requires in outdoor worksites to help keep both the workers and the public safe from harm. Construction sites and other industries, including the events industry, use outdoor areas that become muddy or frosty, especially when rainy or winter weather sets in.
In addition, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires the installation of appropriate ground protection mats on grass lawns, soil or turf where vehicles, heavy equipment and/or machineries are used and parked. The protective covering will prevent oil, fuel or acid leaks from damaging and contaminating ground soil. However, ground protection mats come in different types, as some are suitable for light vehicles while others are for heavy machineries and construction equipment.
As a matter of fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA ) specifies that machinery must be assembled or construction equipment must be used only on grounds that have been made firm by the use of supporting materials. Moreover, the type of ground protection mat must conform with the degree and level of specifications given by the equipment manufacturer to ensure adequate support.
Aside from safety, there are several other benefits that can be derived from the use of protective ground coverings.
Benefits of Using Ground Protection Mats
While compliance is the primary reason why business operators, managers or organizers of outdoor activities install protective coverings on the ground, the following are other benefits that can be derived from their use.
Activities that take place on soft grounds such as festivals and outdoor concerts, bring on heavy foot traffic that churn up the soil. The resulting condition not only makes the ground uneven and difficult to walk on but also causes soil compaction. Ground protection mats (GPMs) enable attendees to walk and move around with greater ease and without degrading the quality of the soil.
Covering muddy and slippery grounds with GPMs can help work activities to continue at a normal pace; preventing possible delays in the completion of a project. Completing projects on schedule also means avoiding unnecessary additional costs.
Use of parks or ball fields for major events often include strict stipulations to keep the grounds in good condition, including those in the neighboring areas. Otherwise, if after the event the field or festival site has not been protected in accordance with environmental laws, landowners can make legal claims for damages pertaining to the improper use of the site.
Keep these benefits in mind when carrying out a project involving outdoor areas, particularly on uneven soil. As mentioned earlier, there are different types of ground protection mat that provide the appropriate solution.