When using lifting equipment, safety is always the first priority. Although OSHA regulations do not require outrigger pads in all cases, it is always a good idea to use them when carrying out lifting operations. In this article, we will discuss the main benefits of using outrigger pads and explain why polymer pads are preferable to timber alternatives.
Does it feel safer to stand on a ladder or a scaffold? If you ask us, we'll put down the scaffold. This is because scaffolding spreads the weight it carries over a larger surface area - keeping it more balanced and less likely to topple over.
The outrigger system increases the footprint of the equipment and provides a more stable base for your load. But it's important to remember that because the outreach bracket carries the full load, forces need to be distributed further at the point of contact with the ground. This is where outrigger pads come into play.
Crane Stabilizer Pads
The job of the outrigger pad is to transfer a huge amount of pressure on the ground in contact with the bottom of the outrigger extension. If the pressure is not paid for, the ground may succumb to that pressure and cause the crane to tip over. Using outrigger pads is like giving your equipment a scaffold rather than a rickety old ladder.
Wooden outrigger pads are widely used because they are inexpensive and easy to source. However, wooden outrigger pads have some obvious disadvantages. Industrial plastic outrigger pads, as designed here by Abosn, are made from an extremely tough polymer called UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight) Polyethylene. UHMWPE outrigger pads are superior to those made from hardwood for a number of reasons.
As wood is absorbent, it not only absorbs chemicals from the liquids it encounters, it also adds extra weight. As site injuries are a constant problem, the last thing a construction operator needs is an employee straining their back while placing an outrigger pad.
The risk of injury is much lower when using synthetic outreach brace pads, which weigh half as much as wood. As we have already described, they do not add extra weight due to moisture.
Outrigger Pads
Wood is highly porous and can absorb any liquid it encounters. Outrigger pads are often exposed to groundwater, precipitation and any potential contaminants in the groundwater. This can include motor oil, road salt, petrol, and other chemicals.
Synthetic outrigger pads are better able to withstand the harmful effects of moisture and chemicals. UHMWPE is unaffected by both, so your outrigger pads will not be affected by exposure to these elements.
The strength of UHMWPE comes from its long chains of high-quality molecules. It has the greatest impact strength of any thermoplastic currently manufactured. Our UHMWPE outrigger pads are designed to flex slightly over rough terrain, which prevents them from breaking under pressure. Wood is prone to cracking and splintering, and also swells and warps due to moisture absorption, which can weaken the mat.
Although timber is a cheaper material, UHMWPE has a much longer service life. There is no need to replace the leg pads regularly, just a set of synthetic pads for long service life.
Abosn designs outrigger pads in a variety of sizes and configurations for use with cranes, earthmoving equipment, concrete pump trucks, rail service equipment, and more. Contact Abosn today for your safety and upgrade your job site safety!
