Wind & Weather Limits for Lifts

Wind pushes on the boom and the load. A gust can swing a load into workers, side-load the boom, or push the crane past its stability limit. Every crane has wind limits from its maker, and many loads should come down well before them.

• Crane operators
• Lift directors
• Riggers

Why wind matters

• Wind is stronger higher up. Wind at the boom tip can be much faster than at ground level. Use a wind meter at the boom tip, not just the forecast.
• Gusts matter more than average speed.
• Large, light loads act like sails: wall panels, roof trusses, glass, signs, HVAC units and formwork catch the wind and can swing violently or exceed capacity even when they’re well under the chart weight.
• Wind blowing from behind or the side of the boom adds load the chart may not account for.

Maker limits

• The crane’s manual and load chart notes give maximum wind speeds for operation, and sometimes reduced capacities in wind.
• Limits vary widely by crane type and configuration. Long booms and jibs usually have lower limits.
• The maker’s limit is a maximum, not a target. Loads with big surfaces may need much lower limits; your lift plan should say.

Stop the lift when

• Wind reaches the maker’s or the lift plan’s limit
• Gusts make the load hard to control with tag lines
• Thunder is heard or lightning is nearby
• Visibility drops so the operator or signal person can’t see
• Ice or snow builds up on the boom or load
• Anyone involved is uneasy about control of the load

Storm warnings and securing the crane

• When a local storm warning is issued, a competent person must decide whether to follow the maker’s procedures for securing the crane, like lowering the boom or setting a tower crane to weathervane (free slew).
• Don’t leave a load hanging overnight or in high winds.
• After high winds, inspect the crane before using it again.

Cold and ice

Ice adds weight and sail area to booms, rigging and loads, and makes steel brittle and slippery. Clear ice before lifting, and inspect wire rope and rigging in very cold weather.

Last updated: October 2, 2026