How Cold Weather Affects Crane Operations (and How We Stay Safe)
- Oct 23, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 28
As autumn deepens across the South Okanagan, construction sites, farms, and industrial yards don’t stop — they adapt. For crane operators, cooler temperatures, shorter days, and unpredictable weather bring new challenges that require experience, preparation, and precision.
At Big Lift Crane Service, we’re often asked how cold weather affects crane operations — and whether it’s safe to lift during fall and winter months in Penticton, Oliver, and the surrounding area. The short answer?
✅ Yes, it’s absolutely safe — when it’s done by trained professionals using the right equipment, safety protocols, and judgment.
Here’s how colder weather impacts crane work and how we keep our operations efficient and safe year-round.
1. The Effect of Temperature on Crane Performance
Cranes — like any precision machinery — respond differently as temperatures drop. Steel, hydraulics, and mechanical systems can all behave slightly differently in the cold.
🔹 Steel and Structural Components
Cold weather can make steel more brittle, especially during sudden temperature swings. That’s why pre-lift inspections are critical in late fall and winter. At Big Lift, our team checks for any signs of wear, stress, or condensation that could lead to issues in freezing conditions.
🔹 Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic fluid thickens in low temperatures, which can affect smoothness and response times. Our operators warm up systems gradually and use fluids designed for cold-weather operation, ensuring smooth lifting even when frost is on the ground.
🔹 Electrical Components and Controls
Cables and sensors can become stiff or less responsive in near-freezing weather. Regular maintenance and storage practices prevent this — our cranes are kept in ready condition, not left idle and cold for long periods.
2. Wind and Weather: The Real Game Changer
Temperature alone doesn’t stop crane operations — wind and ice are the bigger factors. Even a calm day in Penticton can turn gusty by afternoon, especially near open valleys or ridgelines.
🔹 Wind Management
Every crane has a maximum allowable wind speed for safe operation. Our 92’ and 128’ boom truck cranes are equipped with modern control systems, and our operators continuously monitor local wind data. If winds exceed safe limits, the lift is paused — no exceptions.
🔹 Ice and Snow
Snow or frost on the ground can affect stability. Before every lift, our crew checks the setup area to ensure firm, level footing and proper outrigger support. If ice buildup occurs on the boom or rigging, it’s carefully removed before lifting begins.
By respecting these natural limits, we prevent accidents and ensure precision — no matter what the weather brings.
3. Operator Expertise: The Key to Safe Cold-Weather Lifting
Behind every safe lift is a certified crane operator who understands how conditions influence performance. In fall and winter, our operators adapt by:
Extending warm-up times for equipment
Checking rigging for moisture or ice
Monitoring wind and temperature throughout the day
Using spotters for low-visibility conditions
Communicating clearly with ground crews using radios or hand signals
Crane operation is as much about awareness and planning as it is about skill — and our operators bring both to every job.
4. How Big Lift Prepares for the Cold Season
At Big Lift, preparation starts well before the first frost. Our fall maintenance routine ensures our cranes stay reliable through the colder months in the South Okanagan.
Our Cold-Weather Safety Checklist Includes:
✅ Full hydraulic and lubrication inspection
✅ Tire and brake checks for traction on wet or icy surfaces
✅ Boom inspection and cleaning before and after lifts
✅ De-icing fluids and safety gear on every truck
✅ Extra rigging and padding for cold-sensitive materials
We also maintain flexible scheduling for clients — because safety sometimes means waiting out a weather system rather than forcing a risky lift.
5. Why We Can Keep Lifting When Others Pause
One of the advantages of boom truck cranes — like our 28-ton and 50-ton models — is their mobility and versatility. They’re lighter, faster to set up, and easier to stabilize than larger tower or crawler cranes. This makes them ideal for winter work in urban lots, vineyards, or rural properties where ground conditions can change quickly.
Our cranes can:
Set up on compact or sloped ground
Navigate narrow access routes
Perform short, precise lifts efficiently
Operate safely in mild winter weather typical of the Okanagan Valley
So even as temperatures dip, Big Lift remains ready for residential, commercial, and agricultural lifting across Penticton, Oliver, and nearby towns.
6. Staying Safe Together
For us, safety isn’t just a checklist — it’s a culture. Every member of our crew, from the operator to the ground team, is trained to identify and communicate risks. We encourage clients to share any site-specific concerns, whether it’s soil stability, access points, or weather exposure.
The goal is simple: keep every lift safe, controlled, and successful — no matter the season.
Crane work doesn’t stop when the temperature drops — it just requires more preparation and experience. At Big Lift Crane Service, we combine the right equipment, maintenance practices, and operator expertise to deliver safe, reliable lifting year-round in the South Okanagan.
So if you’re planning a project in Penticton, Oliver, or nearby communities and wondering whether it’s too late to schedule a lift — don’t worry. Our team is ready to help you plan safely around the season and get the job done right.
