Bog mats play a critical role in ground protection by evenly distributing the weight of people and machinery on engineering and construction projects. Without adequate load distribution, the ground along access routes and on project sites can become churned up, compacted, and deformed. This not only has safety implications, but it can also cause costly and sometimes irreversible environmental damage.
Our Ekki mats are used in some of the most challenging and vulnerable habitats in the world, in part due to their excellent load distribution capacity. As we often get questions on the topic, we thought we would answer some of the more general queries about bog mats and weight distribution.
Why is load distribution important on construction and engineering sites?
These types of sites often involve a lot of people and heavy machinery working on ground that might be unstable, uneven, or ecologically vulnerable. Effective load distribution ensures that the weight of workers and equipment is evenly spread out across a wider area, making the working platform safer and more stable. From a ground protection perspective, lowering the pressure per square inch creates a uniform defensive shield over the terrain beneath. With bog mats in place, the weight cannot converge in one spot and exert damaging levels of pressure on the ground.
What common damage can happen without proper load distribution?
Without bog mats in place, there is potential for ground damage to happen in any environment. However, delicate ecosystems like wetlands, coastal areas and forests are particularly vulnerable. Common consequences of failing to install adequate ground protection mats include soil compaction, ground deformation, erosion, water contamination and the destruction of vegetation.
As well as the ethical implications of not protecting the environment, there can be weighty legal and financial consequences. However, installing the right bog mats will help you get the job done with minimal impact on the natural surroundings.
Are bog mats limited to specific environments?
The type and thickness needed may vary according to the specific requirements of the project and the local conditions but products like our versatile Ekki mats can function across all terrains and climates. They are designed to distribute weight evenly and perform to spec whether they’re situated in a constructed urban space or remote ad challenging natural habitats.
What weight distribution factors do project managers need to consider when choosing bog mats?
Load capacity: choose your bog mats based on the heaviest potential load.
Terrain: The bog mats’ specifications will depend on the terrain; stable, less sensitive areas will require different mats than soft, ecologically important, or waterlogged areas.
Level of ground protection required: while any level of ground damage is to be avoided, certain habitats may need superior protection which will inform your choice of bog mat. Your bog mat supplier will be able to talk through the most suitable options for your project.
Talk to our bog mat experts
If you have questions about load distribution or any other aspect of ground protection, our bog mat specialists are happy to help. We can advise you on the best solutions and give you a quote. Our FSC certified Ekki bog mats are available for sale or hire and we offer next day UK delivery as well as worldwide shipping.