What precaution should be taken when operating a crane with a long boom during windy conditions?

When operating a crane with a long boom in windy conditions, reducing the load capacity is essential for safety. Long booms are inherently more susceptible to the effects of wind due to their extended reach and lighter weight relative to their length. Wind can cause instability, leading to a higher risk of tipping or swaying. By reducing the load capacity, operators can mitigate the risk of losing control of the crane, ensuring that the crane remains stable during operation and that the load can be safely managed even in challenging weather conditions.

While adjusting the boom angle and securing the load before movement are important practices in general crane operation, they don't directly address the compounded risks introduced by high winds. Increasing the outriggers' extension might improve stability but does not alter the crane's susceptibility to wind forces in the same way that capacity reduction does.