Ground Support
By Eric Steiner, Marketing Director, Bigfoot Construction Equipment, Inc.
The Foundation of Every Lift
National Outrigger Pad and Crane Mat Day( 4 / 24): A Day of Awareness
Each year on April 24, the industry comes together to observe National Outrigger Pad and Crane Mat Day, emphasizing the critical role ground stabilization plays in lifting operations.
It’ s a day that represents the constant need for four outrigger pads to maintain the safety and stability of cranes, aerial lifts and other heavy equipment around the clock, every day of the year.
The Importance of Proper Ground Stabilization
In any lifting operation, the foundation of the lift is the first and most crucial step. No matter how advanced the crane or skilled the operator, improper ground stabilization can compromise safety, efficiency and equipment longevity.
Without the right outrigger pads or crane mats, even the most well-planned lift can fail due to ground shift, uneven terrain or excessive pressure on unstable surfaces. A solid foundation ensures load broadcasting, stability and protection for the equipment, the jobsite and most importantly, the personnel. Proper ground stabilization minimizes accidents, protects infrastructure and extends the lifespan of lifting equipment.
Broken down simply, outrigger pads / crane mats are used for these three reasons:
• To make sure the load handling equipment( LHE) is level within the manufacturer’ s guidelines.
• To effectively broadcast the pounds per square inch or per square foot from the outrigger to the ground by increasing the surface area point of contact.
• To prevent the LHE from sinking into the ground, tipping over or collapsing, protecting personnel, property and equipment.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration( OSHA) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers( ASME) both have published works with information about proper outrigger padding practices.
OSHA 1926.1402( b) states:“ The equipment must not be assembled or used unless ground conditions are firm, drained and graded to a sufficient extent so that, in conjunction( if necessary) with the use of supporting materials, the equipment manufacturer’ s specifications for adequate support and degree of level of the equipment are met. The requirement for the ground to be drained does not apply to marshes / wetlands.”
ASME B30.5-3.2.1.5( i) states that blocking under outrigger floats, when required, shall meet the following requirements:
1. Have sufficient strength to prevent crushing, bending or shear failure.
2. Be of such thickness, width and length as to completely support the float, transmit the load to the supporting surface, and prevent shifting, toppling or excessive settlement under the load.
14
April 2025 • www. cranehotline. com