After more than a decade of servicing the people and worksites with crane hire in Perth, we’ve seen it all, and more than anything, we know the importance of safety in a project.
This is amplified in dangerous weather, which is why we at United Crane Services have put together this article. Mobile cranes are a staple on many construction sites, used for everything from lifting and lowering to moving and shifting. They get things done effectively and safely, but in the event of dangerous weather, there are a few things you should be aware of.
Operating a crane on a bad weather day
Although it’s still possible to operate on a bad weather day, there are precautions you should take.
Rain
When it rains, water can enter crucial parts of your crane, such as the clutch and brakes. If enough water enters, they may stop functioning normally or even completely break. The best precaution you can take is to move your crane to a sheltered area until it stops raining.
Wind
High wind velocity can cause your crane’s load to swing, which can put enough pressure on the crane for it to drop the load. It can also affect your crane’s forward and backward stability.
That doesn’t mean you can’t operate in windy conditions. Instead, check the highest wind speed your crane can endure, and keep that in mind.
How to avoid strikes of lightning on your cranes
Lightning is the biggest threat to your crane on a bad weather day, as overhead cranes are especially tall. However, there are three ways that you can act to avoid lightning on your cranes.
In Advance
Firstly, check the weather in advance. If it shows storms on the horizon, consider shutting down work for the time of forecast.
Lightning Detection Method
A lightning detection method should be part of every crew’s kit. They can show you the exact location of lightning, allowing you to better avoid strikes on your cranes.
During a storm
If it was unavoidable and the storm already began, act with safety in mind. As soon as you hear thunder, turn off the crane’s electric power and lower the boom. Ask your workers to move into a safe space away from the crane and wait for the thunder and lightning to cease. During this period, you can use the lightning detection device to see where it will land.
Before you continue, inspect your crane for any damage, with particular attention to your crane’s rope, which could melt if there was lightning nearby.
Questions? Let us help
It’s important to minimise the risks when using mobile cranes in dangerous weather and know when you can’t use them at all.
At United Crane Services, we abide by laws and regulations and can advise you on what to do in these circumstances. If you have any questions about crane use during emergencies, or if you would like to book a crane hire in Perth, feel free to call us at +61 08 9250 4488, or email us at info@ucsperth.com.au. Our friendly and knowledgeable team would be happy to help out.
