Posted By Simon Carrier Mark Having just checked my IPAF operators guide for MEWPs " the generally accepted design wind and also the maximum in which an operator can work comfortably is 12.5m/s or 28mph." Hope this helps Simon

Posted By Jerry Lucey Hi Mark, I have found that maximum speed limits are important and understand the maximum speed here in Ireland to be 33knots for cranes, however you should consider factors such as loads being lifted i.e. there is a greater risk in windy conditions for lifting a pre-case wall panel than a bale of re-bar. The location of where the lift is being carried out will also have a bearing i.e. is the lift being carried out in a windy corridor area between structures. While the maximum speed limit should always be observed other factors should be considered and in exceptional circumstances you may need to stop crane operations at lower wind speeds. As someone who was site based for some time I would be wary of crane operators with their own agenda. I have seen a very useful chart some time ago where the wind speeds at ground level were linked to items like trees and the effect the wind was having on them. In other words when a crane operator comes to you and states that the wind speed is 40knots and the tell-tale signs on the ground tell you there is only a light breeze you should be warned. With MEWPs I would also be wary of where they are operating and while adhering to the maximum speed be aware of areas where there is extra risks. On the other hand you may have an area which is surrounded on two or three sides with walls and not susceptable to the risks associated with wind. I am sorry Mark that this is probably not the answer you wanted but I do feel there has to be an element of risk assessment while observing the maximum wind speed limits.