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We have all seen the statement on event regulations that environmental mats must be used, but what constitutes an environmental mat? The following is taken from the FIM Environmental Code Handbook

Serious environmental problems can arise when vehicle fluids liquids like oil and fuel, etc are dispersed on unprotected soil surface when they are being serviced. Spilled oil tends to accumulate in the environment, causing soil and water pollution. Oil decomposes very slowly. It reduces the oxygen supply to the micro-organisms that break the oil down into non-hazardous compounds.

The “Environmental Mat” thus acts as a barrier between the vehicle/motorcycle and the soil. The rationale behind the use of the mat is to protect the soil from pollutants like vehicle fluids. Spilled vehicle fluids pose a serious risk for the environment and can cause irreversible damage to the ecology and groundwater sources.

The use of an environmental mat or similar ground-protecting device compulsory to be used where servicing of motorcycles is permitted by the organiser, amongst others in the paddock and repair areas.

Specifications:

It is important that Mats must be composed of an absorbent upper part (top) and an impermeable part underside (bottom).

For Motorcycles the minimum technical data for the mat are: – Dimensions: Minimum 160 cm X 100 cm – Absorption capacity: Minimum 1 liter per m² – Thickness: Minimum from 5 to 7 mm

The key-elements to consider, when deciding on an environmental mat, are the following:

• The absorption capacity of the mat (or ground protecting device) so that no puddles are formed on top.
• Under no circumstances must it allow vehicle fluids to seep through onto the soil, thus having to consist of an impermeable (liquid proof) base.

In combination with the Environmental Mats, biodegradable absorbent pellets can be use to absorb spilled fluids and absorbent cloth, which is specifically designed to absorb oil from a water surface. Chemicals, that are environmentally friendly, are also available to treat contaminated soil. All of these must be disposed of in a hazardous waste container.

Under no circumstances may these mats be disposed of in a standard refuse bin. A hazardous waste container must be available at a designated point within the DSP (Designated Service Point). Any damaged mats MUST be disposed off in this container. Alternatively the soiled mats can be placed in a sealed plastic container for disposal by a hazardous waste disposal company.

After the use of an environment mat, it can be rinsed with water ONLY at a place with a drain which is connected to an oil-divider (filter).

Old Mats must be considered as hazardous waste and disposed of accordingly.