Working in the Heat – The Impact of Extreme Temperatures on Crane Performance and Safety

Winnipeg may be famous for its winters, but recent years have proven that summer heat is becoming just as challenging, if not more. Heat waves have arrived earlier, lasted longer, and reached temperatures well above seasonal norms. In May 2025, for example, Winnipeg saw temperatures soar above 36,9°C, breaking an 87‑year record and triggering widespread heat warnings.

For construction teams and crane operators, this trend brings new safety considerations. Heat doesn’t just affect people, it directly affects heavy equipment, including cranes that rely on precision and mechanical stability. If you manage construction sites in the region, understanding how heat impacts crane performance is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting workers, and preventing costly downtime.

Why Cranes and Heavy Equipment Are Vulnerable in Extreme Heat

Cranes are engineered for precise, controlled movement. But that precision depends on many components functioning within recommended temperature conditions. Extreme heat pushes those limits.

1. Hydraulic System Stress

Hydraulic systems are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. High heat can thin hydraulic fluid, reducing lubrication and increasing the risk of overheating or pressure inconsistencies. When fluid becomes too thin, components can wear faster, valves may respond unpredictably, and lifting operations may become less stable.

2. Metal Expansion Affects Precision

Steel expands when it heats up. In temperatures exceeding 30°C, common during Winnipeg’s recent heat waves, the expansion of boom sections and structural components can alter crane calibration and load-handling accuracy. Even small deviations in measurements or angles can translate into safety hazards during lifts.

3. Lubricants Break Down Faster

Lubricants and greases are formulated to function within certain thermal ranges. Extreme heat accelerates breakdown, reducing their ability to minimize friction. This can cause bearings, joints, and slew rings to wear prematurely or operate roughly, increasing the likelihood of mechanical failures.

With heat waves in cities like Winnipeg becoming more frequent, equipment vulnerabilities are expected to intensify over time.

Heat-Related Risks for Crane Operators and Site Crews

While equipment suffers in extreme heat, the people who operate and work around cranes face even greater risks.

Heat Stress and Heat Exhaustion

High temperatures combined with physical labour can quickly cause dehydration, dizziness, reduced coordination, and impaired judgment. Winnipeg’s recent heat waves have led to warnings that early-season spikes are especially dangerous because workers are not yet acclimatized to hot conditions.

Reduced Alertness and Slower Reaction Times

Operating a crane requires constant awareness, precision, and the ability to react immediately. Heat fatigue dulls these reflexes, increasing the possibility of operational errors.

PPE-Related Overheating

Safety gear adds insulation, trapping heat. Even light work can feel strenuous when temperatures are in the mid‑30s and humidity adds to the strain. These risks are magnified on busy job sites where shade is limited and reflective surfaces amplify radiant heat.

How Skyline Crane Inc. Helps Maintain Safety and Reliability in Extreme Heat

Ensuring a secure environment is one of the pillars of successful construction projects, and partnering with the right company is fundamental for the safety of everyone involved. Skyline Crane Inc. prioritizes safe operation by pairing rigorous, heat‑aware inspections with teams who are highly experienced in working under extreme summer conditions. Our crews know how intense Winnipeg’s heat can be, and they’re trained to recognize equipment stress, adjust procedures, and maintain strict safety practices when temperatures climb. With highly skilled professionals and advanced, well-maintained equipment, we ensure every project is completed with safety, professionalism, and full regulatory compliance.

Stay Safe and Partner with Skyline Crane Inc. for Your Next Project

Winnipeg’s rising temperatures demand new attention to crane safety and equipment performance. Whether you’re managing a tight construction schedule or operating during a heat wave, our team ensures your lifts remain safe, your equipment stays reliable, and your crew is protected.

If you need dependable crane services in Winnipeg, Skyline Crane Inc. is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your next project or request expert support.