LFT/Specific Lifts/TBT-LFT-026
Wind Speed Monitoring and Lift Limits
Lifting Operations › Specific Lifts › Wind Speed Monitoring and Lift Limits
Toolbox Talk
Wind Speed Monitoring and Lift Limits
Wind is one of the greatest threats to safe lifting operations. Gusts can cause loads to swing uncontrollably, increase the effective load on the crane, and reduce operator visibility from rain and spray. Every lift plan must include specific wind speed limits, and these limits must be actively monitored throughout the operation. This talk covers how wind affects lifting and what controls must be in place.
Key Hazards
Uncontrolled load swing causing struck-by injuries to ground workers
Crane overload from wind-induced forces exceeding rated capacity
Large-area loads acting as sails catching gusts unpredictably
Crane toppling in sustained high winds above rated operational limits
Control Measures
- Install an anemometer on the crane or at the work location to monitor live wind speed.
- Define specific wind speed limits in the lift plan for each type of load being lifted.
- Reduce the safe working load of the crane when lifting large-area or high-windage loads.
- Stop lifting operations when wind speed reaches the limit stated in the lift plan.
- Check the weather forecast before the shift and plan lifting activities during calmer periods.
- Use tag lines to control load rotation and swing during all lifts, especially in windy conditions.
- Brief the crane operator, slinger, and banksman on the wind limits before each lifting session.
- Monitor for gusts, not just sustained wind speed, as gusts create the most dangerous conditions.
- Do not resume lifting after a weather stoppage until conditions are confirmed within safe limits.
Remember
- Every lift plan must include specific wind speed limits for the loads being lifted
- Monitor live wind speed using an anemometer and stop when the limit is reached
- Large-area loads catch the wind like a sail and require reduced safe working loads
- Watch for gusts, not just average wind speed, as gusts create the greatest danger
- Do not resume lifting until conditions are confirmed within safe limits after a stoppage
Applicable Legislation: LOLER 1998 · BS 7121 (Code of Practice for Safe Use of Cranes) · CDM 2015 · PUWER 1998
Delivered By
RAMS Builder
Generate professional Risk Assessment and Method Statements in minutes. 10 document formats, site-specific content, instant Word download.