Question

What have to be taken into considerations when working under high wind condition during construction?

Answer 1

The following are the consideration to be taken into account when construction is in high wind conditions:

1. Use protective grears such as following

a) hard hats (tightened so they are not blown off)

b) Goggles (as some Soil, Dust, Cement, Debris and other small particles can become airbourne. Human eyes are vulnerable to such small particles)

c) Respiratory masks: It is better to use N95 masks which avoids debris, dust particles and cement to enter human body through nose and mouth.

2. Displaced Work Materials: Tools, machinery on the construction sites should be stored at proper places (on the opposite direction of wind).

3. Move the machinery far from line of fire.

4 Ensure that work materials used on elevated surfaces are properly secured and avoid working under scaffolding during high wind events.Postpone lifting operations.

5. The wind can easily blow objects away, particularly light objects such as hard hats and sheeting. It becomes even more dangerous when high winds are involved because they can blow heavier objects such as machinery or even trucks (though, hopefully, your site will be closed by this point).

6. Ensure hauling vehicles are properly filled. Consider margin of safety for wind while filling them.

7. Be prepaired to stop the construction for a while.

8. Ensure partially built structures are properly supported at all times regardless of weather conditions and that walls are adequately braced until building is complete.

9. All crain activity must be postponed till acceptable wind speed is restored.