How are fall protection mats installed?

The installation of safety mats is a crucial step in ensuring safety in playgrounds, sports facilities, or other areas with fall risks. Proper installation ensures the mats achieve their full shock-absorbing potential and remain stable and functional over time. The installation process varies depending on the type of mats, the substrate, and the application area.

1. Preparing the Substrate

A suitable substrate that is level, stable, and load-bearing is essential for installation. The substrate plays a significant role in the durability and functionality of safety mats.

Suitable Substrates:

  • Concrete or asphalt: Ideal for permanent, fixed installations.
  • Compacted gravel or crushed stone: Commonly used for outdoor applications.
  • Soil or grass: Suitable for special grass safety mats but requires additional stabilization.

Preparation Steps:

  • Remove stones, roots, and other irregularities.
  • Compact the surface to prevent settling.
  • For permeable mats, include a drainage layer (e.g., gravel or crushed stone) to prevent water pooling.

2. Installation Methods

The installation method depends on the product type and requirements:

Loose-Lay Installation

  • Suitable for: Small areas, temporary setups, or private applications.
  • Procedure:
    • Lay the mats on the prepared substrate.
    • Position mats tightly together to avoid gaps.
    • Use connectors (e.g., clips or plugs) to link the edges of the mats.
  • Advantage: Quick and easy, without permanent fixation.

Adhesive Fixation

  • Suitable for: High-traffic areas such as public playgrounds or sports facilities.
  • Procedure:
    • Apply a special adhesive or mortar to the underside of the mat and/or the substrate.
    • Position the mat in the desired location and press it firmly into place.
    • Ensure the adhesive layer is evenly distributed.
  • Advantage: Durable and long-lasting installation.

Anchoring

  • Suitable for: Unpaved substrates (e.g., soil or grass) or inclined surfaces.
  • Procedure:
    • Secure the mats using ground anchors or screws that penetrate deeply into the substrate.
    • Ensure the mats are firmly and evenly anchored.
  • Advantage: Stability on soft surfaces, even under heavy use.

3. Cutting and Customization

Safety mats are available in standard sizes but can be customized on-site for a precise fit:

  • Tools: Use a utility knife, jigsaw, or bandsaw for accurate cuts.
  • Caution: Trim mats carefully to fit snugly around obstacles like posts, edges, or walls.

4. Edges and Transitions

  • Edge fastening: Use edge caps or border elements to prevent tripping hazards at the edges of the mat area.
  • Transitions: For adjacent surfaces like gravel or sand, use transition profiles to ensure barrier-free access.

5. Drainage and Water Management

Outdoor safety mats should be water-permeable or have an effective drainage layer to prevent water pooling, which could damage the mats and reduce their functionality.

Recommended Measures:

  • Slope the substrate (approx. 2%) to facilitate water runoff.
  • Use gravel or crushed stone as a drainage layer.

6. Post-Installation Maintenance

  • Inspection: Immediately after installation, check mats for correct positioning and secure connections.
  • Cleaning: Regularly remove dirt, leaves, and debris to keep the surface clean and functional.
  • Inspection: Periodically check connections and the condition of the mats, especially in high-use areas.

7. Special Requirements for Specific Applications

  • Playgrounds: Safety mats must meet the DIN EN 1177 standard. Ensure the critical fall height aligns with the mat thickness.
  • Sports areas: Prioritize slip resistance and durability. Use mats designed for high-impact use.
  • Industrial applications: Mats in work areas should be resistant to chemicals and oils, where applicable.

Conclusion

The installation of safety mats requires careful planning and precise execution. From substrate preparation to mat fixation, each step must be carried out diligently to ensure the safety and longevity of the surface. Depending on the application, different installation methods can be tailored to meet specific needs. Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to ensure the mats remain functional and effective over the long term.