Stay Safe & Steady When High Winds Whip

Safe working conditions at outdoor job sites are often weather dependent. A day may start with mild weather, but it can quickly change with rain showers, thunderstorms, snow, or a combination of these unpredictable conditions, frequently accompanied by high winds. These dangerous climate situations require additional safety measures.

High Wind Hazards

  • Flying object hazards occur when high winds or gusts blow away tools or materials and strike nearby workers.
  • Falling object hazards happen when extreme wind gusts move materials or tools off elevated surfaces like a scaffold system—posing a threat to anyone underneath these structures.
  • Crane operations have a higher risk of dropping carried loads due to wind speeds, which could harm workers or create additional hazards.
  • Wind gusts can kick-up airborne particles, which may enter and irritate an employee’s eyes and lead to infection if left untreated.

How to Stay Safe

  • Eliminate dangerous tasks such as lifting operations or working at heights.
  • Avoid working underneath suspended loads or overhead structures.
  • Ensure your tools, materials, and equipment are secured in-place.
  • If wind speeds exceed 40 mph, suspend all crane operations and lower the boom to a horizontal position to keep it in place.
  • Wear safety glasses and use safety goggles when fine particles become airborne.

 

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