Weather
Wind, lightning, and storms
Wind that moves loads, materials, and people at height, lightning strikes, and storms that change ground and surface conditions. Scaffold work during storms or high wind is prohibited unless a competent person decides it is safe and workers are protected by personal fall arrest or wind screens.
Where it shows up
- Crane picks and aerial lift work in wind
- Sheet goods and decking caught by wind on a roof
- Lightning during exposed outdoor work
- Rain softening trench walls and laydown areas
Controls, most effective first
Work down the list. Rely on PPE only for the risk the controls above it cannot remove.
| Level | Control |
|---|---|
| Engineering | Wind screens and tie-downs |
| Covered storage for materials | |
| Administrative | Check the forecast at the morning huddle |
| Set and follow wind limits from crane and lift manufacturers | |
| Stop outdoor work when thunder is heard, shelter in a building or hard-topped vehicle, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before restarting | |
| Secure loose materials and sheet goods at the end of each shift | |
| Inspect excavations and scaffolds after storms | |
| PPE | Rain gear with high-visibility markings |
PPE to list on the JHA
High-visibility vest1926.201
OSHA standards
| Citation | Title |
|---|---|
| 29 CFR 1926.451(f) | Use (scaffolds) |
| National Weather Service | Lightning safety |
Federal OSHA construction standards. State plans can be stricter, and owners or contracts can add requirements. This page is general information. Check the full standard for your work.