Oil Spill Mats

About Oil Spill Mats

Oil spill mats and absorbent pads are essential safety products designed to quickly contain and absorb oil, fuel, chemicals, and other liquids in workshops, garages, factories, and industrial environments. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of absorbent materials from trusted brands including Scan and Sealey, offering solutions for general purpose spills through to specialist oil and fuel absorption. These products are available in convenient pad formats and versatile roll options to suit different workplace requirements.

Whether you need quick-response absorbent pads for small drips and leaks or heavy-duty rolls for larger spill incidents, the selection at MyToolShed includes universal absorbent materials for mixed liquids, oil-specific products that repel water whilst absorbing hydrocarbons, and chemical absorbent pads for hazardous substance management. All products meet relevant UK workplace safety standards for spill control and environmental protection.

Applications

Oil spill mats are used across numerous trades and industries including:

• Automotive workshops and garages – containing oil leaks, fuel spills, and hydraulic fluid during vehicle maintenance and repairs
• Manufacturing facilities – managing machine oil, coolant, and industrial lubricant spills on factory floors
• Plant hire and construction sites – absorbing diesel, hydraulic oil, and other fluids from heavy machinery
• Engineering workshops – protecting workbenches and floors from cutting oils, solvents, and metal working fluids
• Agricultural operations – dealing with fuel and oil spills from tractors and farm equipment
• Transport and logistics depots – maintaining safe, clean loading bays and vehicle maintenance areas
• Marine and boating facilities – preventing water pollution from fuel and oil leaks
• Facilities maintenance – emergency response to unexpected spills in commercial buildings

Choosing The Right Oil Spill Mats

When selecting absorbent materials from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these key factors:

Liquid type: Oil and fuel specific absorbents are hydrophobic (repel water) making them ideal for outdoor use and environments where water is present. Universal absorbent pads handle all liquids including water, oils, and coolants. Chemical absorbent products are designed for aggressive substances and should be specified when dealing with acids, alkalis, or hazardous chemicals.

Format and size: Individual pads offer portability and are ideal for tool boxes, service vehicles, and small spills. Absorbent rolls provide flexibility to tear off the exact amount needed and are more economical for regular use or larger coverage areas.

Absorbency capacity: Check the absorption rate – typically measured in litres per pad or per roll – to ensure the product can handle your typical spill volumes without saturation.

Workplace regulations: Ensure your chosen absorbent materials comply with relevant environmental and health and safety legislation for your industry, including proper disposal requirements for contaminated absorbents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use oil absorbent mats outdoors in wet conditions?

Yes, oil and fuel specific absorbent pads are designed to repel water whilst absorbing hydrocarbons, making them highly effective for outdoor spills even in rain or on wet surfaces. Universal absorbent pads will absorb both water and oil, so are less suitable for wet outdoor environments.

How should I dispose of used oil absorbent materials?

Used absorbent materials contaminated with oil, fuel, or chemicals must be disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with UK environmental regulations. Contact your local waste management authority or licensed hazardous waste carrier for proper disposal procedures – never dispose of contaminated absorbents in general waste bins.

What's the difference between absorbent pads and absorbent rolls?

Absorbent pads are pre-cut to standard sizes for convenient grab-and-go use, ideal for quick response to small spills and keeping in toolboxes or vehicles. Absorbent rolls allow you to dispense and tear off the exact length required, offering better value for regular use and flexibility for covering larger areas or awkward shapes.