Mats of reinforcing steel must be properly supported and tied sufficiently to allow workers to walk on the mats.

• A. They must be painted
• B. They must be properly supported and tied sufficiently to allow workers to walk on the mats
• C. They can be left loose
• D. They must be cut into pieces

Answer: (B)

Reinforcing steel mats must be stabilized so workers have a safe, stable surface to walk on during placement. Proper supports (chairs or other spacers) lift the mats to the correct elevation and keep them from sagging or shifting, while tying the mats with wire holds the bars in their intended positions. This prevents movement when someone steps on the mats, reduces trip hazards, and ensures the reinforcement remains in the correct location and spacing for the concrete pour. Painting, leaving mats loose, or cutting them into pieces wouldn’t provide the necessary stability or safety, so the required practice is to have them properly supported and tied to allow walking on the mats.