During a pre-lift planning meeting, it is determined that one outrigger will be set up over a soft spot in the ground. What is the immediate correct action regarding the load chart?

Question: During a pre-lift planning meeting, it is determined that one outrigger will be set up over a soft spot in the ground. What is the immediate correct action regarding the load chart?

Answer options: ✅ The crane's capacity must be reduced, and a matting plan developed to ensure ground bearing pressure is within limits.

• The outrigger capacity for that corner increases, so no adjustment to the chart is needed.
• The lift can proceed as planned if the other three outriggers are on firm ground.
• Only the allowable ground bearing pressure for that specific outrigger needs to be checked, not the load chart.

Correct answer: The crane's capacity must be reduced, and a matting plan developed to ensure ground bearing pressure is within limits.

Explanation: A soft spot beneath an outrigger can lead to uneven settlement, reducing the crane's stability and thus its actual lifting capacity. A responsible lift plan requires strengthening the ground (matting) and potentially reducing the crane's capacity or adjusting the setup to ensure safety and stability, in accordance with Provincial OHS regulations and CSA Z150 requirements on supporting surface integrity.