Are DICA Outrigger Pads OSHA Approved?

OSHA requires the use of “supporting materials” meaning “blocking, mats, cribbing or similar supporting materials or devices” in 1926.1402.  OSHA goes on to state that “The equipment must not be assembled or used unless ground conditions are firm, drained, and graded to a sufficient extent so that, in conjunction (if necessary) with the use of supporting materials, the equipment manufacturer’s specifications for adequate support and degree of level of the equipment are met.”

Having stated this, OSHA does not specify any sizing techniques, materials to use or not use, or proper usage techniques.  Those decisions are left to the equipment owner, operator and controlling entity.  OSHA openly states that they have a “longstanding policy and practice not to endorse any commercial products.” (Reference)  Based on this OSHA does not formally approve any outrigger pads or “supporting materials”.

What does this mean?

First, it means OSHA does not provide formal approval for commercial products such as our DICA SafetyTech® outrigger pads. Secondly, OSHA does provide guidance regarding when supporting materials should be used. Lastly, citations can be given for not meeting rule 1926.1402.

Does OSHA provide additional guidance relative to supporting materials?

Yes. One of the ways OSHA provides additional guidance is to point interested parties to companies or organizations that can provide information assistance.

In regards to supporting materials, DICA has received recommendations from OSHA during various training and site inspections.  We don’t want to construe those recommendations as specific OSHA endorsements of our products. To restate, that is not what OSHA does.  Such recommendations recognize DICA is able to provide assistance to those seeking reliable supporting materials and industry information and that our SafetyTech® Outrigger Pads and FiberMax® Crane Pads are compliant with their guidance.

Are SafetyTech Outrigger Pads widely used in OSHA regulated industries?

Yes. SafetyTech outrigger pads have been used for decades in industries regulated by OSHA for safety and performance. These industries include the U.S. federal government (including NASA and all five branches of the armed forces), investor-owned utilities, REC’s, crane and aerial equipment OEM’s, nuclear energy facilities and mining and drilling operations.

Why are SafetyTech Outrigger Pads widely used in these industries?

Organizations within these industries use effective risk management practices to provide safe working environments and meet regulation standards set by OSHA. Since not using supporting materials or using ineffective supporting materials would be out of character with effective risk management practices, the widespread use and longstanding presence of SafetyTech outrigger pads in these industries demonstrate their compliance, effectiveness, and trustworthiness.

In addition, SafetyTech Outrigger Pads provide an unbreakable outrigger pad that is easy to use and delivers high-performance load distribution and ergonomic safety.

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ABOUT US

DICA is a family-owned and operated company that specializes in building high performance engineered outrigger pads, crane pads, cribbing blocks and magnetic sling protectors that are lightweight, easy to use, and long-lasting.

DICA products are proudly Made in the USA, ASME B30.5 compliant and used by operators on all seven continents and 50+ countries around the world.

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