What practice should be followed when extending outriggers on a digger derrick?

When extending outriggers on a digger derrick, it is essential to keep them extended while being monitored to ensure safety and stability. This practice is crucial because extending the outriggers provides necessary support to the equipment and prevents it from tipping over. Monitoring while they are extended allows the operator to quickly assess any changes in the load or ground conditions and make adjustments as needed to maintain safety.

Proper monitoring helps in identifying potential hazards, such as ground instability or shifting loads, which could compromise the stability provided by the outriggers. By ensuring that the outriggers are extended while being observed, operators can react promptly to any issues that may arise, thereby enhancing overall operational safety.

In contrast, extending outriggers only when the load is lifted could lead to a precarious situation if the derrick becomes unstable before the outriggers have been properly set. Keeping the outriggers off the ground or not extending them fully can also reduce the stability of the equipment, making it more susceptible to accidents. Having a clear view while extending is important, but it is secondary to the need for consistent monitoring to ensure safety during operation.