The outrigger pad is the single component standing between a fully loaded crane and the ground beneath it. Get the size right and the lift is stable and safe. Get it wrong and the outrigger can punch into the ground — one of the most common causes of mobile crane accidents. This guide shows you how to size pads correctly, every time.

The two numbers that decide everything

Every safe lift comes down to a simple comparison:

  • Outrigger load — the maximum force one outrigger puts on the ground during the lift (found in the crane's load chart).
  • Ground bearing capacity — how much pressure the ground underneath can safely carry before it fails.

If the pressure under the pad is higher than the ground can take, the pad sinks. The pad's job is to spread that load over a bigger area so the pressure drops to a safe level.

How to size the pad

The bigger the pad, the more the load is spread and the lower the pressure. As a working rule, the required pad area equals the outrigger load divided by the allowable ground pressure. In practice that means:

  • Firm, compacted ground: a smaller pad is enough.
  • Gravel or dry granular soil: step up one size.
  • Sand, fill, or recently disturbed ground: use a much larger pad — often two to four times the area.
  • When in doubt, go bigger. A larger pad is always the safer choice.

Choosing the right material

Modern fiber and composite outrigger pads are light enough for one person to carry and position, yet extremely strong. They resist water, oil and impact, will not rot or splinter like timber, and last for years. For very heavy point loads, steel pads are used — but they are heavy and can rust.

Set-up and inspection checklist

  • Place the pad on level, cleared ground — remove loose stones and debris.
  • Centre the outrigger foot on the pad.
  • Inspect every pad before use for deep cracks, delamination or warping.
  • Never stack undersized pads to "make up" area — use the correct single pad.
Not sure which size fits your crane? Send us your crane model and per-outrigger load and our team will recommend the correct certified pad — available in all sizes from stock in Saudi Arabia.