In the construction, utility, and heavy equipment industries, outrigger pads for boom truck operations are essential components for safety, stability, and efficiency. When lifting heavy loads, stabilizing your boom truck is non-negotiable — and that’s where high-quality outrigger pads come in.
Whether you’re a seasoned operator or managing a fleet, choosing the right outrigger pads can help you avoid costly equipment damage, prevent job site accidents, and comply with OSHA safety regulations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about outrigger pads for boom truck systems — including types, materials, cost considerations, and how to choose the best option for your specific application.
Read too: Port Authority Snapback Trucker Cap: The Stylish and Practical Headwear You Need Today
What Are Outrigger Pads?
Outrigger pads, sometimes called outrigger mats or stabilizer pads, are portable pads placed beneath the outriggers of heavy equipment like boom trucks, cranes, and aerial lifts. Their main function is to distribute the load from the outriggers over a wider surface area, reducing ground pressure and increasing overall stability.
In boom truck operations, these pads ensure that the vehicle doesn’t tip or sink into soft or uneven ground. Without them, even the most powerful boom trucks can become dangerously unstable.
Why Outrigger Pads For Boom Truck Are Essential for Safe Lifting
When it comes to operating a boom truck, safety is paramount. Using the right outrigger pads for boom truck equipment significantly reduces the risk of tipping accidents and increases the longevity of your machinery.
1. Load Distribution
Boom trucks can exert thousands of pounds of pressure through each outrigger. On softer or unstable terrain, this can cause the outriggers to sink or shift. Outrigger pads help spread the load evenly over a larger surface area, keeping your equipment safe and level.
2. Protects Job Site Surfaces
Many commercial or residential job sites include paved surfaces, lawns, or sensitive landscapes. Without outrigger pads, the metal footings of a boom truck can easily crack pavement or create deep ruts. Pads act as a buffer and prevent surface damage.
3. Compliance with Safety Standards
OSHA and ANSI guidelines recommend or require stabilizing equipment when using boom trucks. High-quality outrigger pads help ensure your operation is in compliance, reducing liability and increasing operator safety.
4. Improved Stability on Slopes or Uneven Terrain
Not all work sites are level. In these cases, outrigger pads for boom truck usage is crucial for ensuring stability and reducing tipping risks.
Common Materials Used in Outrigger Pads for Boom Trucks
Different job site conditions and load weights call for different materials. Here are the most common types of outrigger pad materials available:
1. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) or UHMWPE
- Durable and lightweight
- Resistant to water, oil, and chemicals
- Ideal for lighter boom truck applications
- Commonly used in utility, telecom, and general construction
2. Rubber Pads
- Great for indoor or paved surfaces
- Provides grip and surface protection
- Not ideal for heavy lifting on soft ground
3. Wooden Pads (Timber or Plywood)
- Traditionally used due to availability and low cost
- Prone to moisture absorption, cracking, and rotting
- Heavier and less durable compared to modern alternatives
4. Steel Pads
- Extremely durable and capable of withstanding heavy loads
- Very heavy and can damage finished surfaces
- Often used in oil and gas or heavy-duty applications
5. Composite Pads
- Engineered materials combining plastic and fiberglass
- Lightweight and strong
- Long-lasting and cost-effective in the long run
How to Choose the Right Outrigger Pads for Boom Truck Operations
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to outrigger pads. Several factors should influence your decision:
1. Weight of the Boom Truck and Load
Know the maximum load your boom truck will carry. Choose pads that are rated well above this weight for safety.
2. Ground Conditions
Soft, sandy, or uneven ground requires larger pads to ensure weight distribution. Hard and level surfaces can use smaller, denser pads.
3. Size and Shape of the Pads
- Round pads are ideal for self-centering under circular outrigger feet.
- Square or rectangular pads provide more surface area and are more stable on irregular ground.
- The size should increase with the weight and type of load.
4. Ease of Transport and Storage
Consider the weight and dimensions of the pads. Some include built-in handles or carrying straps for easier handling.
5. Budget vs. Long-Term Durability
While plastic and composite pads might be more expensive up front, they often last years longer than wood or cheaper alternatives.
Where to Buy Outrigger Pads for Boom Trucks
Whether you’re a small contractor or part of a major fleet, sourcing the right outrigger pads for boom truck operations is easy if you know where to look.
Online Industrial Suppliers:
- Amazon Business
- Uline
- Grainger
- Global Industrial
Specialty Equipment Retailers:
- Bigfoot Construction Equipment
- DICA Outrigger Pads
- SafetyTech
- AlturnaMATS
Local Equipment Dealers:
Many heavy machinery or crane dealers also stock quality outrigger pads or can custom order them based on your equipment specifications.
Cost of Outrigger Pads for Boom Trucks
The cost of outrigger pads for boom truck use depends on material, size, and load capacity.
| Material | Size (Typical) | Price Range (Per Pad) |
|---|---|---|
| HDPE | 24″ x 24″ | $100–$300 |
| Composite | 36″ x 36″ | $300–$800 |
| Steel | Custom sizes | $400–$1,200+ |
| Wood | 24″ x 24″ | $50–$150 |
Investing in high-quality pads may reduce the chance of workplace injury, lower maintenance costs, and even improve insurance rates.
Maintenance Tips for Outrigger Pads
Proper maintenance ensures your pads last and function as intended:
- Inspect before each use for cracks, warping, or wear.
- Clean after use, especially if exposed to chemicals or oil.
- Store flat and out of direct sunlight when not in use.
- Label by capacity to prevent misuse or overloading.
FAQs About Outrigger Pads for Boom Truck Use
Q: Are outrigger pads legally required?
A: In many cases, yes. OSHA and ANSI require equipment to be properly stabilized, which includes using outrigger pads when necessary.
Q: How do I know what size pad I need?
A: Refer to your boom truck’s outrigger load ratings and ground bearing pressure. Most manufacturers include a recommendation based on these factors.
Q: Can I use plywood or homemade pads?
A: It’s not recommended. They may not meet load requirements and could break under stress, creating a safety hazard.
Q: Can one pad work for all equipment?
A: Possibly, but it’s best to use pads that are tailored to the specific size and weight of the equipment for optimal performance.
Final Thoughts: Invest in the Right Outrigger Pads for Boom Truck Safety and Performance
Choosing the right outrigger pads for boom truck operations is not just about protecting your equipment — it’s about protecting your crew, your project, and your reputation.
Whether you operate on rough job sites or paved urban landscapes, outrigger pads are a non-negotiable part of your lifting toolkit. With various materials, sizes, and cost points available, there is a perfect option for every boom truck application.
The next time you’re setting up for a lift, make sure you’re placing your outriggers on something strong, stable, and built to last. The safety of your team and the success of your job depend on it.
Leave a Reply