At GJ Mats we’ve supplied timber bog mats for a wide range of projects spanning multiple industries. Hardwood ground protection mats play a key role in safety, operational efficiency, and environmental protection in sectors from construction and demolition to outdoor events and disaster response. In this blog, we explore the diverse applications of timber mats and the key industries that rely on them. 

We’ll start with the most obvious sector. The construction industry relies on bog mats to create stable roadways and robust platforms that can handle the weight of heavy machinery like cranes and excavators. They also protect underground utilities from pressure damage by distributing weight evenly and provide a solid base for porta cabins and other site buildings. 

Utility companies need timber mats for both the installation and maintenance of power lines, water, and sewage pipelines. Utility construction and repair covers both urban and remote locations with bog mats being instrumental in facilitating safe access, particularly in more challenging rural environments. 

Timber bog mats are commonly used in the oil and gas industry to provide access routes and safe working platforms. They are pivotal to on and offshore drilling projects as well as pipeline installation and maintenance. With operations often taking place in rural, coastal, and ecologically important settings, hardwood bog mats also prevent damage to delicate or protected terrain. 

From wind turbine installation to hydroelectric dam construction, timber bog mats are in demand from the rapidly expanding renewable energy sector. Green energy installations often require the use of heavy lifting equipment and sites can be in challenging terrain. Hardwood bog mats provide safe and efficient access whilst also ensuring that any protected habitats are suitably protected from harm. 

If you’ve ever been to a music festival or sporting event, you will almost certainly have walked or driven on ground protection mats. Without bog mats in all the right places, the mud situation can quickly get out of control. Used for vehicle access, guest walkways and support for stage construction and seating areas, they are a necessity for any large outdoor event (especially in a wet climate like the UK).  

Although not one of the core markets, there are agricultural applications for timber mats. Waterlogged ground can cause significant problems on farmland, especially on routes frequently used by heavy agricultural machinery or livestock. When muddy conditions affect both operational efficiency and safety, bog mats can be a lifesaver. Placed in high traffic areas, they prevent heavy equipment getting stuck and provide safer conditions for animals and workers to move around the land. They are also useful in offering ground protection on delicate soil and reducing erosion. 

Bog mats are commonly used in the forestry and logging industry to prevent heavy loads sinking into soft ground. Ease of access is a frequent problem in difficult woodland habitats, but timber mats are incredibly effective in keeping operations running smoothly. They also offer robust protection for surrounding tree routes and vegetation.  

For organisations operating in the most challenging environments on earth, ground protection mats are indispensable. From rapid military deployment scenarios to emergency relief operations, the ability to create temporary roads and stable foundations on which to set up field hospitals or store lifesaving machinery and equipment is vital. 

Whatever industry you are in, you can hire or buy hardwood bog mats from GJ Mats’ ground protection specialists. Our team will help you select the best ground protection mats for your unique needs.