Getting Outriggers Right – How Proper Setup and Mat Selection Bolster Every Lift

Safe crane operations depend on proper preparation, and few steps are more critical than setting up outriggers correctly.

This includes choosing the right outrigger mats to distribute the crane’s load effectively. 

These precautions are essential for creating a stable foundation and ensuring smooth, secure operations.

Factors to Consider When Setting Up Mobile Cranes

Planning and preparation are the backbone of safe lifting operations. 

Every stakeholder, from crane operators to engineers, must collaborate to assess site conditions, identify risks, and follow proper procedures.

Key elements include:

    1. Ground Conditions: A thorough evaluation of ground conditions is essential to determine its load-bearing capacity and identify any reinforcements required.
    2. Outrigger Setup: Outriggers must be extended to lift the crane’s wheels completely off the ground unless specified otherwise.
    3. Mat Selection: Outrigger mats (timber pads, bog mats, or composite materials) play a crucial role in spreading the crane’s load evenly across the ground.

    The Role of Outrigger Mats

    Outrigger mats are critical for preventing ground failure under the crane’s load. 

    They help distribute weight over a larger surface area, ensuring the ground beneath remains intact. 

    Key considerations when selecting mats include:

    • Size: The mat must be large enough to distribute the load to the ground at a pressure below its bearing capacity.
    • Material Strength: Mats should be durable and capable of handling the concentrated load exerted by the outrigger foot.
    • Load Placement: Ensure the load is placed centrally on the mat, avoiding the edges to prevent uneven stress, deformation, or collapse.

    A misstep in any of these areas can compromise crane stability, leading to safety hazards or operational delays.

    Calculating Mat Size and Ground Pressure

    Using the correct mat size is essential for safe crane operations. 

    Here’s the formula to calculate the required mat area:

    Area = Crane Load (Crane Weight + Lifted Load)​ / Maximum Ground Bearing Capacity

    This ensures the crane’s load doesn’t exceed the ground’s bearing capacity. 

    Alternatively, if the mat size is fixed, you can calculate the pressure imposed on the ground and verify it against the allowable limits.

    Best Practices for Outrigger Setup

    1. Extend Outriggers Fully: Unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, extend the outriggers to lift all wheels off the ground.
    2. Adapt to Tight Spaces: In constrained environments, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for partial outrigger configurations and ensure the use of specific load charts for those setups.
    3. Use Proper Mats: Select mats that meet load requirements and ground conditions. Consider timber, HDPE, or steel mats based on site-specific needs.
    4. Centralise Load on Mats: Position the outrigger foot centrally to distribute pressure evenly and prevent damage.
    5. Inspect Equipment: Regularly inspect mats and outriggers to ensure they are in good condition and meet operational standards.

    Why Proper Setup Matters

    Crane stability is a non-negotiable requirement for safe lifting. Improper outrigger setup or mat selection can result in uneven load distribution, ground deformation, or equipment failure. 

    By adhering to best practices and conducting thorough site assessments, you create a secure environment for every lift.

    At Premier Cranes & Rigging, we prioritise safety and precision in every operation. 

    From selecting the right equipment to ensuring proper outrigger setup, we are committed to delivering for our clients #TeamLifting

    Back to Posts