12 June, 2024

Safe use of AWPs in windy conditions

Safety Weather conditions Blog
Aerial work platforms may encounter wind during operation, which can affect the stability of the machine. At elevated positions, the wind may be stronger than at ground level. Buildings and structures may shield or funnel wind at low levels while at the elevated position the platform is exposed to greater force. Therefore, all AWPs must be designed and tested to demonstrate stability for operation while exposed to permissible wind speeds or be labelled as designed for indoor use only.

Indoor or outdoor?

Indoor-only AWPs should only be used in areas where there is no wind force acting on the AWP. Some AWPs may be rated for use both indoors and outdoors use. The user must ensure that the operator controlling the machine complies with the limits specified by the manufacturer. Operating an indoor use only AWP or an indoor/outdoor AWP at the indoor setting while exposed to wind is a violation of safe working practices.

Wind rating

To make sure powered access equipment is operated in safe conditions, the wind rating is measured at the platform and communicated to all users:

  • The maximum wind rating must be displayed on the data plate and at the control position.
  • Typically, an outdoor-rated AWP has a maximum wind rating of 12,5 m/s (28 mph).

Design requirements

For all configurations of the AWP, stability calculations and stability tests include tests for wind, side force, slope and rated load. The wind is calculated at 12.5m/s and applied to the machine’s structure, platform and the occupants and equipment. Testing is conducted in still conditions with a weight to simulate the effect of wind. Outdoor-rated AWPs may include additional counterweighting to aid stability.

Indoor only aerial work platforms

Machines for indoor use only should always be labelled INDOOR ONLY with a wind rating of 0 m/s. They can only be used in environments with no exposure to wind, even if it’s “not a windy day” outdoors. Some indoor areas are indeed subject to wind, such as buildings under construction, warehouses or hangars, therefore careful machine selection is crucial.

AWPs with reduced rating

Some aerial work platforms are designed as an indoor AWP with the option to be used outdoors, with operational restrictions due to potential exposure to wind loading. Such restrictions can include reducing the personnel capacity in the platform and/or allowable functionality. Operators must be aware of and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations at all times. Any such limits must be specified on the machine’s data plate.

Also check:

  • Some AWPs provide a switch or other mechanism to select the required indoor/outdoor mode.
  • Load-sensing systems may not restrict the load capacity at the outdoor limit.
  • The operator must be aware of the decreased capacity rating and operate the AWP accordingly When outdoors or subject to wind indoors, the reduced limits must not be exceeded.
  • Use of add-on devices may increase the surface area of the AWP and potentially reduce stability Before installing any device, contact the manufacturer to confirm the ongoing stability of the AWP.
  • Use of these devices may be restricted to indoor (zero wind) only.
  • Examples include drop-protection mesh, panel carriers, window carriers or painter’s cover(s).

Operational focus points

What can you do to make sure an AWP is operated safely when working in wind? Operational focus points include:

  • Check the AWP data plate to confirm the wind rating.
  • IPAF recommends the use of a handheld anemometer at the work platform.
  • When positioning the AWP, check for wind funneling and shielding.
  • Once elevated, confirm the wind speed is within the allowable limit.
  • If you do not feel comfortable, then descend from height.
  • Take note of gusts and changing wind conditions.
  • Always obey the AWP limits and do not operate at higher ratings than permitted.

Downloads

IPAF Guidance – Wind rating
18 Dec 2023
pdf
1.03 mb

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