No matter what kind of construction project is being done, if there are cranes then crane pads are a necessity. As with any type of construction equipment, proper safety measures need to be taken to ensure no unnecessary harm comes to the job site or the people working there.
Whether it’s a small crane or one that’s building a bridge, crane pads are essential for several reasons. Here’s why they should always be used for construction projects involving cranes.
Equipment Damage
Believe it or not, operating on bare soil can damage construction equipment, cranes especially. While it’s imperative that the ground is level and compacted, it’s hard to maintain a completely flat or stable surface. This is one of the biggest reasons that crane outrigger pads and ground mats are used.
Uneven Load Distribution
No matter how secure a crane is, there’s always the possibility that there may be an uneven load distribution. When a crane operates, it’s not always completely stationary. In fact, as a crane arm moves, weight is distributed unevenly throughout the base of the crane. outrigger pads can help ease that distribution.
More Factors Than Loose Soil
While it’s important to note that loose surfaces require crane pads, solid surfaces sometimes can, too. For example, if an asphalt or concrete driveway is poured over a hollow drain pipe, your outrigger can effectively shatter the surface. Outrigger pads should always be used on a hard, solid surface.
Type of Pad Matters
Contrary to popular belief, the type of pad you choose actually does make a difference in how well your crane operates. Some operators choose to use pressure treated wood as an outrigger pad, this can prove to be problematic. Even if it’s pressure treated, wood can’t support extremely heavy loads that are often placed on cranes.
Crane mats are incredibly important to the stability of cranes, and thus the safety of those operating them and working around them. These are just a few of the many things to be considered when choosing appropriate safety measures and operating construction equipment such as cranes.