Abstract: A mat for sweeping a surface is provided with an elongated slot therethrough which extends transverse to the intended direction of movement of the mat over a surface whereby debris on the surface will pass upwardly through the slot for collection on the upper surface of the mat. The slot may be perpendicular or angled relative to the direction of travel and the trailing edge of the slot may be provided with a chamfered surface to assist in guiding debris upwardly onto the upper surface of the mat. The mat may be either a one piece flat flexible mat or may be comprised of a plurality of mat elements each of which has a slot therethrough and which may be connected to other mat elements to make a larger mat.