What can heavy winds influence when operating a crane?

Heavy winds significantly impact crane stability due to their potential to create lateral forces on the crane structure. When a crane is operating in windy conditions, the wind can push against the boom, causing it to sway or become unstable. This is especially critical when the crane is lifting loads, as instability can lead to tipping or loss of load control, which poses a safety risk to both the operator and nearby personnel or structures.

In addition, wind can affect how a load is carried, as it may cause the load to sway or shift unexpectedly, leading to further complications. While other factors like operational capacity and load height can be affected indirectly, the direct relationship between heavy winds and crane stability is paramount. Therefore, understanding the effects of wind on stability is crucial for safe crane operation.