The mobile cranes are highly favoured in the manufacturing and construction business. This is because they allow for easy transport to the site and require little in the way of a set up. Mobile cranes are also versatile and able to handle different types of cargo with ease. However, operating a mobile crane isn't without risk especially in windy days. High wind speeds will increase the load exerted on the crane and affect its stability. Cranes have even been known to topple over in such weather conditions. Due to this, certain safety practices are paramount. If you plan on hiring a mobile crane on windy days, here are some tips to keep you and your employees safe.

Monitor the wind speeds.

Some weather conditions are simply not suitable for the use of mobile cranes. Monitor the weather forecast and forego the use of a crane if a storm or extremely windy weather is predicted. Rain will make the ground wet and make the terrain unstable. During operations, ensure you have a way of keeping an eye in wind speeds constantly. Place anemometers on the boom tips where there's the greatest impact of wind is felt and constantly monitor it during operations. Whenever the wind speed exceeds the maximum limit specified by the crane's manufacturer, halt your operations immediately and lower the load.  

Work on firm and level ground.

The ground over which the crane situated should be firm, since stability is crucial when it comes to operations on a windy day. A stable base will allow the mobile crane to withstand the wind more effectively. A muddy or uneven terrain will only increase the risk of rollover. The ground should also be level and any slopes avoided when conditions are windy. Working on a slope has the effect of either increasing the working radius of the crane hence affecting its stability as it bears the load. In the presence of high wind speeds, such a crane will easily topple.

Use outriggers and stabilizers.

These are used to help stabilize the crane when loading and therefore minimise the risk of a rollover. They provide a wider base of support which is especially necessary during windy days. Their main difference is that outriggers lift the vehicle off its base while stabilisers only add to the supporting base and don't lift the wheels off the ground. Outrigger pads should be placed under the outriggers to spread out the overall weight when the ground-bearing capacity is insufficient.

For more information, contact a business such as Freo Group.