Looking After Cranes In Hot Weather
Although sunshine is a welcome change from the usual British forecast, it is important to prepare appropriately for carrying out construction work in hot weather.
High temperatures bring unique challenges that can impact both the health of your workers and the safety of your site. This is especially crucial when using heavy machinery such as construction cranes.
In this guide we will highlight some of the key hazards of working in construction in the heat and provide a few construction safety tips, with a view to helping you improve site safety when working with or around cranes or other heavy machinery. Remember that for safe crane hire throughout London and the surrounding areas, Total Lifting Services have the equipment and the knowledge to carry out safe lifts, every time.
One of our key summer safety tips is to prevent issues by considering these factors and putting plans in place to combat them:
Caring For Your Workers
Beyond health concerns, hot weather can impact workers’ productivity and overall morale. The physical strain of working in high temperatures can lead to quicker fatigue, reducing efficiency and increasing the likelihood of errors and accidents.
Prevent issues by considering these factors and putting plans in place to combat them:
- UV Radiation
Too much sun exposure can lead to heat fatigue, heat stroke and sunburn. Ensure that workers who may be exposed to strong sunlight for extended periods of time have access to shelter where they can take regular breaks. Ensure that workers have access to the correct PPE for hot weather conditions and be sure to inform workers of the potential dangers, as well as recommending the use of sunscreen.
- Heat Stress
Heat stress encompasses several conditions caused by exposure to high temperatures, especially when combined with high humidity and strenuous physical activity. These conditions include:
- Heat cramps, characterised by painful muscle spasms.
- Heat exhaustion, marked by heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and headache.
- Heat stroke, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition with symptoms such as high body temperature, altered mental state, flushed skin, rapid breathing and a fast pulse.
Be sure to train staff in the detection of signs of heat stress, in themselves and in colleagues.
- Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial in hot weather. Make sure there’s plenty of water available and remind workers to drink regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Set up hydration stations around the site for easy access.
- Adequate rest breaks
Heat can accelerate the onset of fatigue. Ensure to schedule breaks and offer cool, shaded environments to encourage rest. Breaks should be properly timed and not include shutting down equipment.
- Personal Protective Equipment
PPE is necessary, however be aware that standard hardwear can add to the threat of heat stress. Choose lightweight, breathable PPE whenever possible to protect workers without causing overheating.
- Monitoring weather conditions
Keep an eye on weather forecasts and heat warnings. Be aware of the possibility of summer storms and how these could impact your particular site. Use this information to plan work schedules and take extra precautions on very hot days.
- Adjust work schedules
Consider changing work hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Starting earlier in the morning or later in the evening can help reduce heat exposure.
Crane Safety Awareness
It is essential that any construction equipment that you use is well maintained, but this is particularly pressing in hot weather. If you are using a crane in high temperatures, these are our summer safety tips:
Regular checks
Heat can cause more wear and tear on equipment. Carry out thorough and routine checks before using cranes and other machinery to make sure everything is in good working order.
Overheating risks
Although rare, cranes can overheat in hot weather. Regularly check cooling systems, hydraulic fluids and other critical parts, particularly if temperatures exceed 30 degrees.
Store equipment in cool, shaded areas when it is not being used.
Softened seals
Heat can soften seals, leading to leaks and breakdowns. Inspect seals regularly for any signs of damage.
UV Damage
Sunlight can damage cranes and other equipment, causing fading and cracks. Store equipment in shaded areas when not in use to reduce UV damage.
Expert Operators
Hiring experienced crane operators who know how to handle hot weather challenges is important. Skilled operators are able to assess any potential heat-related hazards, as well as having an understanding of how equipment performs in different weather conditions.
Hire from a reliable lifting company
At Total Lifting Hire we supply a wide range of lifting equipment, cranes and transport. We are proud to be industry leading experts in our field, with over 35 years experience providing only the highest quality crane hire and lifting services to London and the surrounding areas.
All our cranes are regularly maintained, so you can have total peace of mind that every piece of our equipment will be in premium condition. Our priority is the safety of our customers and we work hard to ensure everything is up to the highest health and safety standards.
Find out more
We’d love to discuss how we can help provide you with reliable equipment for your next project. Contact us today on 0208 226 4000 or email us on info@totallifting.com.
