Whether you’re managing a construction site, setting up for an outdoor event, or protecting sensitive landscapes from plant damage, ground protection mat hire is a fast and cost-effective way to create safe, stable temporary access.
At FESS Hire, we offer access to IsoTrack L ground protection mats, heavy-duty, non-slip HDPE panels that handle plants, vehicles, and footfall on challenging terrain. But hiring mats isn’t just about ticking a box. There are key pitfalls that can cause delays, damage, or even safety risks if not addressed upfront.
This guide covers everything you need to know, from specs and ground prep to fixings, weather risks, and compliance.
What Are IsoTrack L Mats?
IsoTrack L mats are heavy-duty ground protection panels, made from non-absorbent HDPE plastic, typically:
- Size: 2.41 m × 1.2 m × 12 mm
- Weight: ~36 kg (two-person lift)
- Load capacity: Rated up to 80 tonnes – depending on ground conditions
- Use cases: Temporary roadways, compound flooring, access tracks, pedestrian paths
- Features: Two traction surfaces, elongated connector slots for thermal expansion, optional U-pins or straps for anchoring
Ideal for use on soil, grass, sand, gravel, and even hardstanding when correctly anchored.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)
1. “80 Tonne Load Capacity” ≠ Guaranteed
The quoted 80-tonne capacity depends on sub-soil bearing strength. If the ground is:
- Wet
- Made-ground/backfilled
- Root-covered or loose
Your real load capacity could drop dramatically. Assess the site’s bearing capacity and include a temporary work sign-off for heavy plant access.
2. Mats Must Be Connected – Always
Mats will shift, creep or spin under vehicle movement unless connected:
- Use at least 2 connectors per mat in traffic areas
- On slopes or cambers: add U-pins
- On hardstanding: consider anchor bolts or straps
Unconnected mats can become trip hazards or damage, especially during turning traffic.
3️. Mats Are Not Designed to Bridge Gaps
IsoTrack mats follow ground contours but cannot safely span:
- Voids
- Trenches
- Ditches
Plan to fill and grade uneven ground first.
4️. Thermal Expansion Can Buckle Mats
HDPE expands in heat. To avoid daytime bowing or trip hazards, always:
- Use elongated connector slots correctly
- Leave 10 mm expansion gaps
- Install fixings in the recommended “hot” or “cold” positions
5️. Steel-Tracked Plant Can Damage Mats
Steel tracks can tear or gouge mats, especially when turning on the spot. To protect your hire:
- Follow traffic flow plans
- Avoid tight turns
- Ensure the correct mat face is used
6️. Outrigger Loads Need Their Own Solution
Mats are not rated for point loads from MEWPs, cranes or outrigger feet. You must:
- Use dedicated outrigger pads
- Calculate the bearing area separately
- Get Temporary Works approval for lifting operations
7. Ground Prep & Site Conditions Matter
Before mats arrive, check:
- Ground is firm, level and accessible
- No buried services where pins will go
- You have room for delivery vehicles (HIABs, artics ~65 ft long)
Pallets weigh ~1.8 tonnes per 50 mats – plan your logistics and laydown areas.
8️. Slips, Trips & Site Safety
To maintain safe access:
- Keep mats free from mud build-up
- Ensure joints are level
- Clean mats regularly to prevent slippery surfaces
9️. Biosecurity & Cleanliness Between Sites
While mats are non-absorbent and chemically inert, they must be:
- Cleaned between sites to prevent soil-borne diseases or invasive species transfer
- Washed down to meet DEFRA’s “leave clean” standard
- Keep spill kits ready when used near plant or fuel storage
Advice from FESS Hire
Hiring ground protection mats is more than just laying down plastic. Done properly, it’s the difference between a safe, usable site, and a costly mess.
At FESS Hire, we supply engineered access solutions that account for:
- Sub-soil conditions and load ratings
- Thermal expansion and trip risk
- Steel plant movement and outrigger zones
- Biosecurity and slip prevention
- Delivery access and manual handling
- Connector types, fixing plans, and layout design
Need advice on planning your mat layout, safe bearing calculations, or Temporary Works sign-off? We’ve got you covered.
What’s Included When You Hire Ground Mats From FESS Hire?
- High-performance IsoTrack L mats
- Required connectors, U-pins or anchoring solutions
- Pre-delivery advice based on site conditions
- Full delivery via HIAB (plus off-hire collection)
- Option for layout planning or installation crew
- Cleaning guidance and spill kit advice for compliance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to connect ground protection mats together?
Yes, always connect mats with fixings. There should be at least 2 connectors per mat, more on slopes or under heavy use.
2. Can I use mats to span a trench or soft ground?
No, IsoTrack mats are not designed to bridge gaps. Fill or grade before mat placement.
3. Are mats rated for crane or MEWP outrigger feet?
No. Outrigger point loads require engineered pads or separate Temporary Works solutions.
4. What if my site is on hardstanding or tarmac?
You’ll need to anchor or strap mats to stop them migrating under turning vehicles.
5. Do I need to clean mats after use?
Yes — especially when moving between sites. Clean mats maintain grip and prevent biosecurity breaches.
6. How many people does it take to install a mat?
Each mat weighs ~36 kg and requires a two-person lift. Handling pallets (~1.8 t) may require a plant or a lifting plan.
7. Can mats be used in hot weather?
Yes, but HDPE expands in heat, so leave expansion gaps and install bolts per “hot/cold” guidance to prevent warping.
Helpful Resource
For full technical specs, see the IsoTrack L Mat Datasheet on External Works (opens in a new tab).
Ready to Book Ground Protection Mats?
FESS Hire supplies professional-grade ground protection mat hire for construction, events, utilities and more. We’ll help you plan, deliver, and install safely: with no surprises. Visit our main page for Ground Protection Mat Hire for more information.
Contact us today for a free quote and expert advice.