Winter presents unique challenges for aerial unit, digger derrick, and crane operators. Freezing temperatures, ice, and snow require specific precautions to ensure safety on the job and to protect equipment from cold-related damage. Here’s a guide to keep operators safe and operations running smoothly in cold weather.
Recognize Symptoms of Cold-Related Health Risks
Working in extreme cold can be dangerous for your health. Hypothermia and frostbite are serious risks, especially for operators exposed to the elements. Watch for these symptoms:
- Redness of skin
- Pain, swelling, and numbness
- Tingling or loss of feeling in extremities
If you or a coworker experience any of these signs, it’s essential to take a break and warm up.
Dress Appropriately for Cold Weather
Proper clothing is essential for maintaining body warmth and preventing cold-related injuries:
- Layer Clothing: Wear several layers, and adjust as needed to prevent overheating and sweating, which can lead to rapid cooling.
- Cover Your Head and Ears: These areas are particularly vulnerable to frostbite.
- Keep Your Extremities Warm: Wear heavy socks, gloves, and use hand and foot warmers. Ensure gloves still allow for safe operation of equipment controls.
Consider How Clothing Affects Equipment Operation
Heavy clothing and gloves can limit dexterity and impair hearing:
- Hearing: If your ears are covered, ensure you can still hear important sounds from your equipment, coworkers, and surroundings.
- Gloves: While thick gloves are essential, test how they affect your grip and ability to handle equipment controls safely.
Use Work/Rest Cycles
Rotating between work and rest periods helps manage exposure to cold temperatures. Regular breaks in a warm area can help prevent hypothermia and frostbite.
Protect Fuel and Engine Components
- Avoid Fuel Freeze: Water in the fuel tank can freeze, which may disrupt operations. Use fuel treatment to prevent gelling.
- Plug in Block/Engine Heaters: This keeps the engine warm, ensuring easier starts on cold mornings.
- Warm Hydraulic Fluid: Cold hydraulic fluid can thicken, affecting operation. Follow the hydraulic fluid warming procedure in the operator or maintenance manual.
Ensure Heating and Defrosting Systems Are Working
Make sure all heaters and defrosters are operational before the cold season begins. These systems are crucial for visibility and operator comfort.
Adjust Crane Capacity in Freezing Conditions
For Altec cranes, apply the following adjustments:
- 10°F to -20°F: De-rate capacity by 15%
- -20°F to -40°F: De-rate capacity by 40%
- Below -40°F: Do not operate the crane, as extreme cold can compromise safety and equipment integrity.
Inspect the Ground Surface
- Avoid Slippery Surfaces for Outriggers: Ice or slick surfaces under outriggers can cause instability. Ensure a secure footing for stability.
- Frozen Tires or Tracks: Tires or tracks can freeze to the ground, causing potential damage. Check equipment for any frozen sections before operation.
Clear Ice and Snow from Equipment
Snow and ice buildup can add significant weight to equipment, which may affect structural stability. Clear all ice and snow from equipment to prevent any additional load.
Maintain Clear Visibility
- Windshield and Cab Windows: Ensure all windows are clear of frost and fog. Use windshield wiper fluid rated for cold temperatures.
- Defrost Thoroughly: Don’t begin driving until you have full visibility from all angles.
Tire Pressure and Road Safety
- Check Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures can lower tire pressure, so verify and adjust as needed.
- Drive Safely: Ice forms first on bridges, overpasses, and ramps, so drive cautiously on the way to the job site.
By being mindful of these cold-weather safety measures, aerial unit, digger derrick, and crane operators can maintain a safer work environment, reduce the risk of equipment damage, and safeguard their health in challenging winter conditions.
