The Impact of Weather Conditions on Safe EWP Operation

Weather conditions play a critical role in the safe operation of elevating work platforms. Changing weather can significantly affect their stability, operator safety, and overall functionality. Understanding these impacts is essential for organisations to maintain productivity while ensuring worker safety, something that should be included in any elevating work platform training program.

Wind Speed Considerations

One of the most significant weather factors affecting EWP operation is wind. All EWPs designed for outdoor use come with a maximum wind rating clearly marked on the manufacturer’s serial plate. These ratings typically start at a minimum of 12.5 m/s (approximately 28 mph), though this varies between models and types.

Wind speed increases with height, potentially reaching 50% faster at 20 metres above ground level compared to ground measurements. This means that while conditions may seem manageable at ground level, operators working at elevation could be experiencing significantly stronger winds that might exceed the EWP’s safety ratings.

For accurate assessment, operators should use an anemometer rather than relying on the Beaufort wind scale, which can lead to underestimation of wind conditions. Many workplaces now include anemometers as standard safety equipment for EWP operations.

Wind-Related Hazards

Beyond direct wind force, operators must be aware of wind-related hazards:

Building structures can funnel wind between them, creating localised high-wind zones even when overall conditions seem calm. These effects can occur indoors in large warehouses, aircraft hangars, and high-rise buildings with multiple openings.

Sheet materials, panels, and building cladding can act as sails when carried on an EWP, dramatically increasing the risk of tipping in gusty conditions. For the same reason, operators should never attach signboards, banners, or similar materials to the platform, even temporarily.

Local wind speeds can also increase due to external factors such as aircraft slipstreams at airports or air displacement from high-sided vehicles on motorways.

Rain and Wet Conditions

Rain presents multiple challenges for EWP operation. Wet surfaces reduce friction and can compromise the stability of outriggers and wheels. Standing water may hide ground hazards such as holes or soft spots that could affect machine stability.

Additionally, wet conditions can reduce visibility and make controls slippery, both of which increase the risk of operator error. Electrical components require extra attention in wet conditions to avoid short circuits or electrical hazards.

Temperature Extremes

In very cold conditions, hydraulic systems may become sluggish as fluid viscosity increases, potentially affecting the responsiveness of controls. Metal components contract in cold temperatures, which can change tolerances and affect the operation of moving parts. Operators are more likely to suffer from cold extremities leading to less accurate control of the EWP.

Conversely, extremely hot weather can cause hydraulic fluid to thin, potentially leading to reduced precision in platform movements. Hot weather also increases the risk of engine overheating in combustion-powered EWPs and can accelerate battery discharge in electric models. Operators are more likely to suffer dehydration leading to headaches and reduced decision-making capacity.

Lightning Risk

Lightning presents a serious hazard when operating EWPs due to their height and metal construction. When thunderstorms are forecast or lightning is observed, EWP operations should be suspended immediately, and operators should descend to ground level. Work should only resume once the threat has passed, generally recommended as 30 minutes after the last observed lightning strike.

Visibility Concerns

Poor visibility due to fog, heavy rain, or low light conditions increases operational risks. Operators may have difficulty judging distances, identifying overhead hazards, or communicating effectively with ground personnel. These conditions necessitate additional precautions such as increased illumination, reduced operational speed, and enhanced communication protocols.

Developing a Weather Response Plan

Organisations using EWPs should develop a comprehensive weather response plan that includes:

• Regular monitoring of weather forecasts before and during EWP operations, with clear guidelines on conditions that require work modification or cessation.
• Specific wind speed thresholds for different EWP types and heights, based on manufacturer specifications and site-specific risk assessments.
• Procedures for securing equipment when operations must be suspended due to deteriorating weather.
• Communication protocols ensure all team members understand when and how to respond to changing weather conditions.
• Alternative work plans for when weather prohibits EWP use, helping to maintain productivity despite disruptions.

Training Implications

Specific weather-related training could include:

• Practical training on recognising changing weather conditions and understanding their implications for EWP stability and operation.
• Competency in using weather measurement tools such as anemometers and interpreting their readings.
• Instruction on procedures for safely lowering and securing EWPs when weather conditions deteriorate rapidly.
• Understanding site-specific weather patterns and hazards that might affect EWP operations.

Conclusion

Weather conditions have a profound impact on EWP safety and productivity. By understanding these impacts, implementing appropriate monitoring systems, and developing clear response plans, organisations can significantly reduce weather-related risks while optimising operational efficiency.

Effective weather management for EWP operations represents not just a safety requirement but a business opportunity. Companies that manage these risks effectively experience fewer weather-related incidents and delays, reducing costs associated with accidents, equipment damage, and project overruns. Additionally, demonstrating thorough weather risk management can enhance an organisation’s reputation for safety and professionalism, potentially providing competitive advantages in tender processes.

By integrating weather considerations into overall EWP risk management strategies, New Zealand businesses can ensure they remain both safe and productive in our dynamic climate conditions.