An interlocking joint device and method of using same, configured to adapt to and integrate with most existing industrial access matting products to create within those matting products an overlapping lip configuration that: (1) interlocks the pre-existing individual mats together; (2) protects the perimeter of the mat from excessive wear and damage to improve performance and versatility; and (3) provides a serviceable and/or replaceable part that creates an inexpensive alternative to replacing entire matting products.