New to Site Access Planning?

How to Master the Basics of Site Access

Proper site access planning is the foundation of a successful construction or infrastructure project. It ensures smooth, safe operations while minimizing environmental impact and complying with local regulations. There are numerous variables to account for when determining the best strategy for accessing your site. Below is a high-level breakdown of the essential steps needed to plan and implement site access effectively, avoid costly mistakes, and keep your project on track.

Step 1: Plan Your Route

The first step to proper site access is mapping out the most efficient and practical path for vehicles and heavy equipment to move in and out of the site. The goal is to minimize time, fuel, and wear on your machinery, while avoiding potential hazards. Here are key factors to consider:

Right-of-way restrictions: Determine whether you’re working within a limited right-of-way, which may restrict movement. In some cases, you may need to negotiate with local landowners for access outside of designated routes.
Natural features: Look for obstacles like rivers, ravines, or steep slopes that might impede movement. Depending on these features, you might need to reroute or create alternative paths. In more complex terrains, working with environmental specialists to minimize disruption might be required.
Existing roads: Take advantage of pre-existing infrastructure where possible. Using established roads reduces the need to disturb the environment, speeding up project timelines.
Vehicle maneuverability: Ensure that vehicles and machinery can navigate the terrain and turn around, if necessary, especially in confined spaces.

Step 2: Assess Your Environment

The site’s environment plays a significant role in determining the access requirements. Conduct a thorough site assessment to understand the environmental and ground conditions. Critical considerations include:

Terrain type: Flat areas may require less preparation, but hilly or uneven terrain needs more attention. Slopes and grades can affect both the safety and efficiency of access.
Soil composition: Soil types such as clay, sand, or loam react differently under pressure. Wet or unstable soils may require heavier-duty mats or more extensive preparation to support equipment. Additionally, assess compaction levels, which can affect how the mats distribute loads.
Weather conditions: Moisture levels and seasonal changes can impact soil stability. Wet or frozen ground may necessitate specialized mats or additional site maintenance, like dewatering.
Environmental protections: Identify any sensitive areas like wetlands, protected habitats, or watercourses. You may need to apply for permits or take extra precautions to ensure compliance with environmental laws.

Step 3: Determine Load Requirements

Every site access plan hinge on an accurate understanding of the weight and size of the equipment and materials that will be transported across the site. Failing to plan for load requirements can lead to safety issues, equipment failure, and environmental damage. Key aspects to consider:

Weight of machinery and materials: Larger, heavier vehicles like cranes, bucket trucks, or excavators require mats that can support the load without sinking or causing ground damage. Different activities (e.g., moving heavy pipes versus operating light equipment) require different load considerations.
Vehicle types: Vehicles or machinery may include ones using conventional rubber tires or others that are on rubber or metal tracks. Tracked vehicles may introduce different wear considerations as they are tougher on mats.
Axle loads and pressure points: Consider not only the overall weight but also how that weight is distributed. Point loads (e.g., the feet of a crane) and rolling loads (e.g., truck tires) exert different pressures, impacting the choice of mats.
Frequency of use: High-traffic areas where machinery is constantly moving will need more durable matting solutions to prevent wear and tear over time.
Future expansion: If additional equipment or materials will be added to the site, plan for mats that can accommodate heavier or more frequent loads.

Step 4: Select Your Mats

After determining load requirements and assessing the environment, the next step is selecting the right mats. This decision is essential for site safety, protecting the ground, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Consider the following:

Material: Mats are made from different types of hard and softwoods as well as from plastic. Each type of material has its benefits as hardwood is super durable but also 2-3x heavier than softwoods.
Design: Mats are also constructed in different ways, some traditional methods include using metal fasteners to bolt together strips of hardwood. Newer construction methods involve laminating softwood in alternating layers to offer the strength of a hardwood mat at a much lower weight.
Size and thickness: Mats are available in a variety of thicknesses, ranging from 4″ to 12″. Some mats are also referred to by number of layers, or plys, ranging from 3-ply to heavier-duty 7-ply. The heavier the load, the thicker and stronger the mats should be.
Terrain and environmental conditions: For softer ground or environmentally sensitive areas, CLT mats that are lighter and stiffer help distribute loads across the ground better. If deeper water areas, a hardwood timber mat is less likely to float.
Reusability: Consider whether the mats will be reused on multiple projects. High-quality, reusable mats can offer long-term cost savings if you expect frequent future use.

Step 5: Site Prep and Installation

Once mats are selected, it’s time to prepare the site for installation. Proper preparation and installation are vital for ensuring stability and safety during the project. Follow these steps:

Site preparation: Grade the area to create a smooth, even surface for the mats. Remove any rocks, roots, or debris that could cause unevenness or instability. If the site contains large obstacles like trees or boulders, clear these in accordance with local environmental laws.
Compliance with regulations: Ensure that your site clearing and installation practices adhere to local environmental protection laws, especially in sensitive areas such as wetlands or forests. Permits may be required for activities that affect these areas.
Positioning and securing mats: Lay the mats in a way that minimizes gaps and overlaps. Secure them as necessary to prevent movement during use. For large vehicles and cranes, make sure the mats are aligned to provide even weight distribution.

Step 6: Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining your mats during the project is crucial for both safety and longevity. Here’s what to focus on:

Regular inspection: Periodically inspect mats for signs of wear, such as cracking, splintering, or warping. Damaged mats can create unstable conditions for machinery and need to be replaced promptly.
Cleaning: Dirt, mud, and debris buildup can cause mats to become slippery and unsafe. Regular cleaning with the right equipment ensures that mats retain their traction and effectiveness.
End-of-project maintenance: Once the project is complete, clean the mats thoroughly before storage. Well-maintained mats last longer and can be reused for future projects, saving you money and reducing waste.

Ready to Start Your Site Access Plan?

Want to keep things simple but ensure your site access is perfectly planned and executed? Contact Sterling Site Access Solutions today to get expert guidance, durable access mats, and complete solutions tailored to your project needs. Let’s make your next project a success! Contact us at 708.388.2223.

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