Elevated Work Platforms (EWP) Licensing Practice Exam

What material is recommended to prevent outriggers from sinking into the ground?

1. Plastic Mats

2. Steel Plates

3. Rubber Blocks

4. Wooden Pallets

The correct answer is: Steel Plates

Using steel plates is a recommended practice for stabilizing outriggers on various surfaces. Steel plates provide a strong and durable base that effectively distributes the load of the elevated work platform, preventing the outriggers from sinking into softer or uneven ground. This is particularly important in construction or maintenance work where stability is crucial for safety and operational efficiency. Steel plates can handle heavy weights and are less likely to deform or break compared to other materials, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. They also resist environmental factors like moisture and temperature swings that could affect materials such as wood or rubber. When considering the other materials, they may lack the same level of strength and durability under heavy loads. Plastic mats, while useful for ground protection, may not provide sufficient support. Rubber blocks can compress under heavy loads, and wooden pallets are typically not designed for such applications and could easily break or become unstable. Therefore, steel plates are the most effective choice for ensuring that outriggers remain stable and prevent sinking into the ground.