Crane and outrigger pads play a crucial role as a safety tool in maintaining stability and preventing accidents during crane operations. They provide support and distribute the load, minimizing the risk of tipping or collapse. Understanding the importance of proper outrigger and crane pad usage is essential for ensuring a safe working environment.
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Below are important safety tips listed that anyone working in the lifting and rigging industry should follow when using outrigger and crane pads.
Outrigger pads are essential tools used in any lifting and rigging setup. They are flat objects that come in a variety of different sizes, thickness, and materials to accommodate the equipment's weight and points of contact.
Also known as crane pads, these tools sit underneath the outrigger (known as a shoe, foot, arm, or flat) and provide a flat surface that distributes the pressure more evenly across the ground. Because the point of contact between the outrigger and the ground is small, too much pressure can cause the ground underneath to shift and crumble. These products help alleviate this pressure to keep equipment like cranes stable during lifting jobs.
Like any lifting and rigging equipment, safe usage ensures that personnel and equipment stay safe during operations. When it comes to using outrigger pads, follow these tips to make sure everything runs nice and safely during the job.
Prior to any crane operations, conduct a thorough site assessment to identify potential hazards. This includes factors like the positioning of your equipment, underground utilities, available space, environmental conditions, and obstructions. Be sure to check for any specific regulations or permits required for crane operations in the area. Always comply with local safety standards and guidelines to avoid any potential legal issues. This includes not only outrigger systems, but any other equipment involved like lifting slings, lifting beams and spreader bars, and any rigging hardware used.
Part of the site assessment also includes evaluating ground conditions. Ground stability, which involves soil type, compaction, slope, and underground utilities, helps determine the appropriate size and type of outrigger and crane pad needed for the specific conditions. According to OSHA's standards on ground conditions, outrigger pads "must not be assembled or used unless ground conditions are firm, drained, and graded to a sufficient extent..." (.(b)). Ensure that conditions meet the necessary safety requirements to use cranes and other equipment on before taking on the task.
Secondly, be aware of your crane's load capacity and the maximum load it can handle with fully extended outriggers. Exceeding the load capacity or misjudging the load distribution leads to outrigger failure or crane instability. Also, not calculating additional weight components like counterweights used to lessen the pressure on outrigger pads leads to the same problems. Refer to the crane manufacturer's specifications and consult with an engineer if necessary.
Selecting the correct outriggers and crane pads is crucial for maintaining stability. Use outriggers specifically designed for the crane model and ensure they are in good working condition. Crane pads should be large enough to distribute the load evenly and prevent too much ground pressure. Use load-bearing calculation tools or consult with experts to determine the appropriate size and type of outriggers and crane pads for your specific application.
Keep these tips in mind when setting up the outrigger system:
Cribbing blocks can be used to support the outriggers, especially on slopes or uneven ground, further enhancing stability.
Additionally, make sure to regularly inspect and maintain outriggers and crane pads so that they are in proper working condition. Check for signs of damage, corrosion, or wear, and address any issues quickly. Regular inspections help identify potential problems before they compromise safety. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and conduct load testing when required.
Lastly, ensure that crane operators are adequately trained and experienced in outrigger and crane pad setup. They should have a clear understanding of load capacities, setup procedures, and safety protocols. Establish effective communication channels between the crane operator, signal person, and other personnel involved in the operation to ensure everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities.
Safety is paramount when working with outriggers and crane pads. That's why US Cargo Control offers high-quality outrigger pads from DICA®. Designed with an engineered thermoplastic material, these products are made to be unbreakable, flexible, and withstanding of high pressure, temperature, moisture, and other corrosives. DICA® outrigger perform well compared to other competitors and handle a variety of applications, all while having an ergonomic design for safe and easy usage.
These products come in two different varieties:
By following these essential safety tips, you can help ensure stability, prevent accidents, and create a secure work environment. Remember, a well-prepared and knowledgeable team is key to successful and safe crane operations.
4 Tips on Buying the Right Lifting and Rigging Equipment
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With competitive price and timely delivery, XINXINGHUAGONG sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
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Why is it Called 'Guy Wire?'
&#;Well I&#;ve heard it has to be 3x the outrigger float.&#;
&#;I&#;ve always used 4x times the float&#; better be safe than sorry.&#;
&#;Who cares what size the float is? I go with the crane capacity divided by 5.&#;
&#;There are no rules, I just stick whatever I have on hand underneath the pad,&#;
&#;I just use the pads that come with the crane, surely that is enough.&#;
STOP. Just Stop the Madness!
We hate to break it to you, but there are NO safe rules of thumb when it comes to cribbing. Nowhere in OSHA does it say that you will be ok if you use the rule of thumb for cribbing, instead in . OSHA states: that cranes must be assembled on ground that is firm, drained and graded sufficiently, in conjunction with supporting materials, such as blocking, cribbing, pads, or mats, to provide adequate support and levelness. For those not in construction, ASME B30.5-3.2.1.5 (i) states:
Blocking under outrigger floats, when required, shall meet the following requirements:
(1) sufficient strength to prevent crushing, bending, or shear failure
(2) 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 load
So how do you determine what &#;adequate support&#; is? You have to calculate it. No rules of thumb, no wing and a prayer, no best guess, just a calculation to determine the size of cribbing/blocking required.
A key thing to remember is that as a crane works and rotates over the various corners and quadrants, the load will shift and at any one time a greater load will be placed on one outrigger than on the others. It is for this reason that equally dividing the load around the outrigger pads is a mistake. If you consider that 100% of crane and maximum load may be exerted on any one outrigger pad at any time you can plan for proper outrigger set-up.
Sure it sounds simple, but we all know that having adequate information to complete the calculation on-site can be challenging depending on whom you talk to. The good news is, there is hope. It can be done. With some basic information on the crane weight, gross load weight and ground bearing pressure, then the size of outrigger cribbing for adequate support can be calculated.
For example:
When it comes down to it, a rule of thumb is a principle with broad application that is not intended to be strictly accurate or reliable for every situation. While it is something that is easily learned and applied to make a preliminary determination, it is not something that Crane Tech believes should be used during crane set up. So when setting up cribbing and someone says, &#;just make it 3x times bigger than the outrigger pad&#;, just say NO! Take the time to calculate and plan &#; it can make the difference between a safe lift and a sunken one.
P.S. Always remember to follow your crane manufacturer&#;s instructions and check the crane level frequently to make sure your outrigger setup is adequately supporting your crane.
About Soils PSI
For further information on soil types refer to OSHA , Subpart P, Appendix A. We also recommend that all users obtain soils engineering advice.
Crane and outrigger pads play a crucial role as a safety tool in maintaining stability and preventing accidents during crane operations. They provide support and distribute the load, minimizing the risk of tipping or collapse. Understanding the importance of proper outrigger and crane pad usage is essential for ensuring a safe working environment.
Below are important safety tips listed that anyone working in the lifting and rigging industry should follow when using outrigger and crane pads.
Outrigger pads are essential tools used in any lifting and rigging setup. They are flat objects that come in a variety of different sizes, thickness, and materials to accommodate the equipment's weight and points of contact.
Also known as crane pads, these tools sit underneath the outrigger (known as a shoe, foot, arm, or flat) and provide a flat surface that distributes the pressure more evenly across the ground. Because the point of contact between the outrigger and the ground is small, too much pressure can cause the ground underneath to shift and crumble. These products help alleviate this pressure to keep equipment like cranes stable during lifting jobs.
Like any lifting and rigging equipment, safe usage ensures that personnel and equipment stay safe during operations. When it comes to using outrigger pads, follow these tips to make sure everything runs nice and safely during the job.
Prior to any crane operations, conduct a thorough site assessment to identify potential hazards. This includes factors like the positioning of your equipment, underground utilities, available space, environmental conditions, and obstructions. Be sure to check for any specific regulations or permits required for crane operations in the area. Always comply with local safety standards and guidelines to avoid any potential legal issues. This includes not only outrigger systems, but any other equipment involved like lifting slings, lifting beams and spreader bars, and any rigging hardware used.
Part of the site assessment also includes evaluating ground conditions. Ground stability, which involves soil type, compaction, slope, and underground utilities, helps determine the appropriate size and type of outrigger and crane pad needed for the specific conditions. According to OSHA's standards on ground conditions, outrigger pads "must not be assembled or used unless ground conditions are firm, drained, and graded to a sufficient extent..." (.(b)). Ensure that conditions meet the necessary safety requirements to use cranes and other equipment on before taking on the task.
Secondly, be aware of your crane's load capacity and the maximum load it can handle with fully extended outriggers. Exceeding the load capacity or misjudging the load distribution leads to outrigger failure or crane instability. Also, not calculating additional weight components like counterweights used to lessen the pressure on outrigger pads leads to the same problems. Refer to the crane manufacturer's specifications and consult with an engineer if necessary.
Selecting the correct outriggers and crane pads is crucial for maintaining stability. Use outriggers specifically designed for the crane model and ensure they are in good working condition. Crane pads should be large enough to distribute the load evenly and prevent too much ground pressure. Use load-bearing calculation tools or consult with experts to determine the appropriate size and type of outriggers and crane pads for your specific application.
Keep these tips in mind when setting up the outrigger system:
Cribbing blocks can be used to support the outriggers, especially on slopes or uneven ground, further enhancing stability.
Additionally, make sure to regularly inspect and maintain outriggers and crane pads so that they are in proper working condition. Check for signs of damage, corrosion, or wear, and address any issues quickly. Regular inspections help identify potential problems before they compromise safety. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and conduct load testing when required.
Lastly, ensure that crane operators are adequately trained and experienced in outrigger and crane pad setup. They should have a clear understanding of load capacities, setup procedures, and safety protocols. Establish effective communication channels between the crane operator, signal person, and other personnel involved in the operation to ensure everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities.
Safety is paramount when working with outriggers and crane pads. That's why US Cargo Control offers high-quality outrigger pads from DICA®. Designed with an engineered thermoplastic material, these products are made to be unbreakable, flexible, and withstanding of high pressure, temperature, moisture, and other corrosives. DICA® outrigger perform well compared to other competitors and handle a variety of applications, all while having an ergonomic design for safe and easy usage.
These products come in two different varieties:
By following these essential safety tips, you can help ensure stability, prevent accidents, and create a secure work environment. Remember, a well-prepared and knowledgeable team is key to successful and safe crane operations.
4 Tips on Buying the Right Lifting and Rigging Equipment
How Many Legs Do I Need for My Lifting Sling?
Spreader Bars vs. Lifting Beams: What's the Difference?
What is D/d Ratio, and Why is it Important for Lifting Slings?
Why is it Called 'Guy Wire?'
&#;Well I&#;ve heard it has to be 3x the outrigger float.&#;
&#;I&#;ve always used 4x times the float&#; better be safe than sorry.&#;
&#;Who cares what size the float is? I go with the crane capacity divided by 5.&#;
&#;There are no rules, I just stick whatever I have on hand underneath the pad,&#;
&#;I just use the pads that come with the crane, surely that is enough.&#;
STOP. Just Stop the Madness!
We hate to break it to you, but there are NO safe rules of thumb when it comes to cribbing. Nowhere in OSHA does it say that you will be ok if you use the rule of thumb for cribbing, instead in . OSHA states: that cranes must be assembled on ground that is firm, drained and graded sufficiently, in conjunction with supporting materials, such as blocking, cribbing, pads, or mats, to provide adequate support and levelness. For those not in construction, ASME B30.5-3.2.1.5 (i) states:
Blocking under outrigger floats, when required, shall meet the following requirements:
(1) sufficient strength to prevent crushing, bending, or shear failure
(2) 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 load
So how do you determine what &#;adequate support&#; is? You have to calculate it. No rules of thumb, no wing and a prayer, no best guess, just a calculation to determine the size of cribbing/blocking required.
A key thing to remember is that as a crane works and rotates over the various corners and quadrants, the load will shift and at any one time a greater load will be placed on one outrigger than on the others. It is for this reason that equally dividing the load around the outrigger pads is a mistake. If you consider that 100% of crane and maximum load may be exerted on any one outrigger pad at any time you can plan for proper outrigger set-up.
Sure it sounds simple, but we all know that having adequate information to complete the calculation on-site can be challenging depending on whom you talk to. The good news is, there is hope. It can be done. With some basic information on the crane weight, gross load weight and ground bearing pressure, then the size of outrigger cribbing for adequate support can be calculated.
For example:
When it comes down to it, a rule of thumb is a principle with broad application that is not intended to be strictly accurate or reliable for every situation. While it is something that is easily learned and applied to make a preliminary determination, it is not something that Crane Tech believes should be used during crane set up. So when setting up cribbing and someone says, &#;just make it 3x times bigger than the outrigger pad&#;, just say NO! Take the time to calculate and plan &#; it can make the difference between a safe lift and a sunken one.
P.S. Always remember to follow your crane manufacturer&#;s instructions and check the crane level frequently to make sure your outrigger setup is adequately supporting your crane.
About Soils PSI
For further information on soil types refer to OSHA , Subpart P, Appendix A. We also recommend that all users obtain soils engineering advice.