What is a piling mat?
A piling mat is a type of working platform used to provide a stable foundation for piling rigs and other heavy machinery to operate on and move around the site. They are constructed from well-graded natural gravel, clean-crushed rock or clean-crushed concrete. Equally, recycled demolition materials may be used, once it is well-graded and any wood or metal debris is removed.
Piling mats are rolled, constructed in layers and should be free-draining to prevent any buildup of water or slurry on the surface. Another purpose of using piling mats is to distribute the weight of heavy piling rigs and other equipment over a larger area, preventing the ground from becoming damaged or unstable.
Piling Mat Design & Thickness
The design of piling mats is crucial in ensuring the safety and efficiency of construction activities. Piling platform design can depend on soil conditions, the type and loading capacity of machinery being used and environmental factors. For instance, a separating membrane may be placed between the piling mat and the subgrade on sites with a high water table to prevent the upward movement of fine-grained soils into the mat.
The thickness of the piling mat is a key dimension that needs to be carefully considered. Piling mats need to be thick enough to provide load-bearing capacity, making them suitable for supporting heavy machinery. If a piling mat is too thick, it can cause unnecessary costs. If a piling mat is too thin, it can be more prone to wear and tear, requiring additional repair costs.
Benefits of Piling Mats
Along with providing a stable foundation for heavy machinery, piling mats offer a few advantages:
- Versatile – piling mats can be constructed on various terrains and soil conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of construction projects.
- Improve Safety – by providing a stable base for operations, piling mats improve the safety of site workers and reduce the risk of accidents caused by uneven or soft ground.
- Cost-Effective – Constructing a piling mat can help avoid costly repairs to the ground, equipment, or environmental damage that may occur without its use.
- Environmental Protection – the presence of a piling mat can minimise the construction site’s impact on the surrounding environment, preventing soil erosion.
The Importance of a Working Platform Certificate
In most cases, construction projects are required to construct a piling mat to comply with local authorities and regulations. Every site with an operational piling rig must have a Working Platform Certificate (WPC). This certificate was issued by the Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS) to improve safety and working practices. A WPC states that a piling mat has been designed and installed properly and has undergone regular inspections and adequate maintenance. The certificate must be signed by the Principal Contractor and handed to the Piling Contractor before any piling work begins on site.
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