Wind Ratings On MEWPs - Why They Are So Important

Since the ANSI A92 (and CSA B354) standards were updated in June 2020, there's been a lot of talk in the access industry about wind – specifically how wind speeds impact MEWP (mobile elevating work platform) use.

Why? Because the updated standards introduced wind rating requirements – something the previous versions of these standards did not address.

In fact, before the standards revisions, there was no distinction between the use of MEWPs indoors or outdoors. This meant that most OEMs, including JLG, designed MEWPs to be operated nearly anywhere, with the caveat that machines should not be raised when wind speeds exceeded 28 mph (12.5 m/s).

Since MEWPs may encounter wind during operation, which along with side force, slope and rated load capacity can influence the stability of the machine, the newer version of the ANSI and CSA standards, which are in alignment with the ISO (International Standards Organization) standards, now requires that every MEWP has a designated wind rating.

To help equipment owners and operators better understand the risks associated with using MEWPs in wind, below is key information every MEWP user should know.

What Is A Wind Rating?

Wind ratings on MEWPs – either 0 mph or 28 mph (12.5 m/s) of wind – indicate the maximum wind speed at which a machine can work. Machines with a rating of 0 mph are for indoor use only, and machines rated for 28 mph (12.5 m/s) are for indoor or outdoor use. This rating will be displayed on the machine's data plate, which MEWP users should always check before operation to confirm the wind rating.

How Is Wind Speed Determined?

Wind speed can be measured using an anemometer, gauged at the MEWP's platform, and can be influenced by three variables:

• Platform elevation
• Surrounding structures
• Local weather events, including approaching storms

Platform Elevation

Wind speed at height can be greater than at ground level. Once a machine is elevated, confirm the wind speed is within the allowable limit.

Surrounding Structures

Winds may be shielded or funneled by buildings, traffic or nearby infrastructure, causing speeds to be lower at ground level but at greater forces at height. Always check for wind funneling and shielding when positioning and elevating the MEWP.

Local Weather Events, Including Approaching Storms

Wind speeds can change rapidly and should be monitored constantly, particularly taking note of gusts and changing conditions. MEWP users should continuously check wind speeds and confirm that they are within the machine's allowable limit. When wind conditions are beyond the machine's allowable limits, operators should descend immediately and discontinue operations.

Wind Speed Descriptions

JLG provides guidance on wind speed for its MEWPs in the machines' Operation & Safety manuals, using the Beaufort Scale. Equipment operators should not operate JLG® machines when wind conditions, including gusts, exceed the specifications shown in this model.

Safety Precautions

In addition to continuously monitoring and measuring wind conditions when working at height, JLG outlines taking a few more safety precautions in their MEWP Operations & Safety manuals, including:

• Not to cover or increase the surface area of the platform or load
• Not to carry large surface area items in the platform when operating outdoors
• Not to increase the platform size with unauthorized modifications, deck extensions or attachments

The addition of such items can increase the exposed wind area of the machine, which in turn will decrease the stability of the machine. For example, banners or signs should not be attached to a MEWP working outside. That's because these items can increase the surface area of the machine's platform and create a "sail" effect, which will destabilize the machine and could potentially cause a tip-over.

Indoor Versus Outdoor Use

One more very important safety precaution to mention: When a MEWP has 0 mph and/or indoor-only use wind rating, it can only be used in areas where there is no exposure to wind (i.e. no wind force acting on the machine). These types of MEWPs should never be used outdoors, not even on a calm day.

If any indoor work area is subjected to wind, such as a building under construction or a warehouse with bay doors open, MEWPs with 0 mph (indoor-only use) wind ratings should not be used. Only MEWPs with an indoor/outdoor rating (work in wind speeds up to 28 mph / 12.5 m/s) can be used in these applications.

So, Why Are Wind Ratings So Important?

Because MEWPs are designed to put people up in the air – even if it's just a few feet off the ground – these machines are designed, tested and rated to ensure they meet certain stability requirements outlined in the ANSI/CSA industry standards. Changing conditions or misuse of the MEWPs can negatively affect the stability of the machine, potentially leading to a tip-over.

For six safety tips every operator on any job site should follow every day to proactively prevent a MEWP from tipping over, click here.

Want To Learn More About Wind Ratings For JLG® MEWPs?

JLG® MEWP Operations & Safety manuals contain all the information you need to know about the machine, including wind speed descriptions and wind ratings for machines. These manuals are found online in the technical publications section on Online Express.

JLG also provides information on everything safety-related, from inspections and manuals to how-tos and safety videos to support its equipment owners and users. To access essential aerial lift safety, product and training information relating to JLG equipment, click here.

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