A wind gauge 50 metres from a crane shows a steady 30 km/h wind. The load is a large, flat panel with significant surface area. The site safety plan specifies a maximum wind speed of 40 km/h. What must the crane operator consider beyond the measured wind speed given the load type?

Question: A wind gauge 50 metres from a crane shows a steady 30 km/h wind. The load is a large, flat panel with significant surface area. The site safety plan specifies a maximum wind speed of 40 km/h. What must the crane operator consider beyond the measured wind speed given the load type?

Answer options: ✅ The sail area of the load will effectively increase the force exerted by the wind, potentially exceeding safe limits.

• The wind speed at the load's height could be significantly lower than at ground level.
• Flat panels are inherently more stable in wind, so the limit could be relaxed.
• The crane's counterweight should be reduced to improve stability in wind.

Correct answer: The sail area of the load will effectively increase the force exerted by the wind, potentially exceeding safe limits.

Explanation: Loads with large surface areas, often called 'sail area,' are highly susceptible to wind forces. Even if measured wind speeds are below limits, the effective force on such loads can be much greater, increasing the risk of instability, load swing, and loss of control.