1. Introduction
Outrigger Pads Australia (ABN: 87638568608) designs, manufactures and supplies outrigger pads for a wide range of applications. Our pads are commonly used to improve the stability and safety of vehicles, mobile plant and access equipment — including sideloaders, scissor lifts, boom lifts, cranes and light and heavy vehicles. We ensure all of our products are in accordance with relevant Australian regulations.
There is no Australian Standard dedicated to the design of outrigger pads. However, we take guidance from relevant Australian Standards for mobile plant and lifting equipment. We also ensure our products are in accordance with applicable Australian regulatory frameworks, and recognised industry best practices for load distribution and equipment stability.
This statement outlines the key regulatory references and principles that inform our designs. It should be read in conjunction with the manufacturer’s specifications for the equipment on which these pads will be used.
2. Alignment with Australian Regulations & Guidance
Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act & Regulations
As a supplier of equipment, we acknowledge our duties under the Work Health and Safety Act and associated Regulations to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that our products are safe and without risks to health and safety.
We incorporate best practices and engineering principles into our designs and testing to ensure our outrigger pads are suitable to help manage the risks associated with ground instability and inadequate load distribution.
Safe Work Australia Guidance
We follow and take guidance from Safe Work Australia’s documetation such as their Guide to Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace.
Australian Standards for Mobile Plant
While no standard specifically addresses outrigger pads, we refer to relevant standards for mobile plant and access equipment, including:
- AS 1418 (Cranes, Hoists and Winches) and AS 2550 (Safe Use of Cranes, Hoists and Winches) – which outline general principles for stability, lifting, and safe operation of mobile equipment with outriggers.
- AS/NZS 1418.10 and AS/NZS 2550.10 (Elevating Work Platforms) – which provide guidance on the safe operation of MEWPs, including the requirement to ensure proper ground support when using stabilisers.
Codes of Practice and Industry Alerts
We consider applicable Codes of Practice, such as the Mobile Crane Code of Practice and Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace, which provide guidance on selecting and using suitable load-bearing supports under outriggers or stabilisers.
We also monitor relevant safety alerts issued by state and territory regulators (e.g. WorkSafe, SafeWork), to stay informed about incidents and recommendations related to outrigger support and equipment stability.
3. User Responsibilities
To ensure safe and effective use of our products, it is essential that customers and operators:
Consult the Plant/Equipment Manufacturer
- Refer to the equipment manufacturer’s recommendations for ground bearing pressure, outrigger load limits, and pad requirements.
- Select outrigger pads that meet or exceed the required specifications. If unsure of the required specification, seek clarification from the plant manufacturer.
Engage a Competent Person if Specifications Are Not Available
- Where guidance is unavailable or unclear, a competent person should determine the appropriate pad size, type, and configuration based on the Plant and site-specific conditions.
Conduct Site-Specific Risk Assessments
- Assess the ground conditions, including soil type, levelness, and surface debris.
- Ensure pads are placed on firm, level ground and are adequately sized to safely support the equipment.
- Additional support (e.g., timber mats, cribbing) may be required in certain environments.
Follow Safe Use and Maintenance Practices
- Replace any damaged or worn pads immediately.
- Maintain records and conduct routine inspections to confirm the pads remain fit for purpose.
4. Further Information
For additional guidance or support, please contact us or refer to:
- Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace
- Standards Australia – AS 1418 / AS 2550
- Standards Australia – AS/NZS 1418.10 / 2550.10 for Elevating Work Platforms
- Mobile Crane Code of Practice
Disclaimer:
This document is provided for general informational purposes only and does not replace applicable laws, regulations, or professional engineering advice. Always consult the Plant/Equipment manufacturer and, where appropriate, a competent person to ensure proper outrigger pad selection and safe equipment operation.