When working on very soft or marshy ground, what additional measure should be considered for outrigger stability?

Question: When working on very soft or marshy ground, what additional measure should be considered for outrigger stability?

Answer options:

• Using longer outrigger cylinders to reach firmer ground. ✅ Placing large, sturdy mats (e.g., timber or composite mats) under the stabilizer pads to considerably increase the bearing surface.
• Reducing hydraulic pressure to the outriggers to prevent them from sinking too deep.
• Only extending the outriggers partially to keep more weight on the tires.

Correct answer: Placing large, sturdy mats (e.g., timber or composite mats) under the stabilizer pads to considerably increase the bearing surface.

Explanation: On very soft ground, using large, sturdy mats significantly increases the surface area for the outriggers, distributing the machine's weight more widely and preventing sinking, a critical practice for stability in challenging conditions as per IUOE 793 and general HEO safety.