Can cranes fall over in the wind?
We’ve all seen those huge cranes towering over construction sites, but have you ever wondered if they can fall over in the wind? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what happens when a crane falls over and find out why it’s so important to make sure your construction site is prepared for high winds.
Can cranes fall over in the wind?
It’s a valid question considering how tall and heavy these machines are. Unfortunately, cranes do fall over in the wind on occasion.
What happens if a crane falls over?
It’s not as simple as the crane just toppling over like a tree. Because cranes are designed to pivot at their base, they can actually swing around in the wind and hit other objects. This can cause serious damage to both the crane and anything else that’s in its path such as any nearby buildings or cars. Worst case scenario, a crane falls on someone and seriously injures or kills them.
How to prepare a construction site for high winds
If you’re working on a construction site, it’s important to be prepared for high winds. Here are some things you can do to stay safe:
- Always check weather conditions prior to work and keep in mind the weather can be unpredictable.
- Have a plan in place so you know what to do if a crane falls over.
- Evacuate the area if a crane falls over.
- Make sure everyone is accounted for and safe.
How do you know when the wind is too strong to use a crane?
There is no definitive answer, as each crane is designed differently and can handle different wind speeds. However, it is generally recommended that cranes not be used in winds stronger than 36 km/h.
There are a few different ways to measure wind speed, including using an anemometer, which is a device that measures the speed of wind. You can also use a weather station or even your phone to get an estimate of the wind speed.
If the wind is strong enough to potentially topple the crane, it’s time to shut it down. Rescheduling work can be extremely inconvenient and costly but safety always comes first.