Winter Crane Safety Hazards
Crane Safety | Dec 16 / 21
While many developers and managers prefer to push major projects to summer, this is not always a feasible option for time-sensitive projects and certain industries. As leading providers of mobile cranes for projects in various industries and environments, the team at TNT Crane & Rigging knows how difficult it can be to complete a project in winter. That is why our experts have provided some information on common winter crane safety hazards and how to navigate them to ensure consistent safety and productivity.
Learn how temperature affects crane operation.
4 Common Winter Hazards that Affect Crane Operation
The following winter hazards are some of the most common and challenging for all types of projects:
1. Reduced Visibility
Fog, rain, snow, and sleet are all more common throughout the winter months. Each of these weather conditions can significantly reduce visibility, making lifts more difficult for even the most experienced and skilled operators. While visibility conditions can be somewhat predicted through the weather forecast, some weather conditions may occur without warning. If visibility is severely impaired, lifts may need to be postponed until conditions improve.
2. High Winds
Every crane has a different capacity or rating for wind resistance. For example, some mobile cranes are rated to resist winds up to 40 km per hour, while others can resist winds up to 55 km per hour. It is important to keep an eye on the weather forecast to stay informed of potential periods with high wind speeds. Much like impaired visibility, high winds can put a stop to a project until conditions improve.
3. Ice Buildups
Operating a mobile crane in icy weather can be extremely hazardous. Loads may freeze to the ground and become more difficult to lift. Additionally, ice may form on loads and crane booms, further impairing lifting ability. Be sure to perform all safety checks on load materials and major crane components to ensure that they are free of ice to determine if the lift is safe to complete.
4. Freezing Temperatures
Extreme cold can increase strain on operators and equipment alike. The steel on mobile cranes can become less resilient in freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of damage. Ensure that all equipment is properly insulated and run it for a few minutes to warm it up before operating.
To learn more about crane safety and common winter hazards or to inquire about our selection of mobile crane rentals, get in touch with the experts at TNT Crane & Rigging. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
While many developers and managers prefer to push major projects to summer, this is not always a feasible option for time-sensitive projects and certain industries. As leading providers of mobile cranes for projects in various industries and environments, the team at TNT Crane & Rigging knows how difficult it can be to complete a project in winter. That is why our experts have provided some information on common winter crane safety hazards and how to navigate them to ensure consistent safety and productivity.
Learn how temperature affects crane operation.
4 Common Winter Hazards that Affect Crane Operation
The following winter hazards are some of the most common and challenging for all types of projects:
1. Reduced Visibility
Fog, rain, snow, and sleet are all more common throughout the winter months. Each of these weather conditions can significantly reduce visibility, making lifts more difficult for even the most experienced and skilled operators. While visibility conditions can be somewhat predicted through the weather forecast, some weather conditions may occur without warning. If visibility is severely impaired, lifts may need to be postponed until conditions improve.
2. High Winds
Every crane has a different capacity or rating for wind resistance. For example, some mobile cranes are rated to resist winds up to 40 km per hour, while others can resist winds up to 55 km per hour. It is important to keep an eye on the weather forecast to stay informed of potential periods with high wind speeds. Much like impaired visibility, high winds can put a stop to a project until conditions improve.
3. Ice Buildups
Operating a mobile crane in icy weather can be extremely hazardous. Loads may freeze to the ground and become more difficult to lift. Additionally, ice may form on loads and crane booms, further impairing lifting ability. Be sure to perform all safety checks on load materials and major crane components to ensure that they are free of ice to determine if the lift is safe to complete.
4. Freezing Temperatures
Extreme cold can increase strain on operators and equipment alike. The steel on mobile cranes can become less resilient in freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of damage. Ensure that all equipment is properly insulated and run it for a few minutes to warm it up before operating.
To learn more about crane safety and common winter hazards or to inquire about our selection of mobile crane rentals, get in touch with the experts at TNT Crane & Rigging. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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