How should weather conditions be managed during lifting?

• A. Ignoring weather changes during lifting.
• B. Only check weather if there is a storm.
• C. Weather has no impact on lifting.
• D. Monitor conditions, halt operations for lightning, heavy rain, high winds, and fix ground conditions.

Answer: (D)

Weather conditions directly impact crane safety, so this topic centers on how to plan and control lifts in changing conditions. You should continuously monitor what’s happening outside and be prepared to stop work if the conditions become unsafe. Lightning is a clear hazard to personnel and equipment, so lifting must halt when lightning is present or in the vicinity. Heavy rain can make surfaces slippery, reduce ground bearing, and lower visibility, all of which increase the risk of slips, ground movement, or miscommunication—so operations should stop until the weather improves and the ground can be assessed. High winds add dangerous load sway and can push a crane beyond its safe operating limits, so lifting should not continue if wind speeds exceed the established limits. Ground conditions can deteriorate when it’s wet, affecting outrigger support and level stability, so you must inspect and fix the ground or mats before resuming.

Other options ignore or downplay these factors, suggesting weather doesn’t matter or that you only check in certain situations, which is unsafe because weather changes can rapidly create unsafe lifting conditions.