The weather can certainly be a force to reckon with. Severe weather conditions can pose significant risks, affecting school days, workdays, and even important occasions. When it comes to excavation and other forms of construction, the adverse effects of these conditions are even more palpable.
Because of the unpredictable nature of weather conditions, there can be unexpected delays in excavation projects. Whether it’s snowstorms, hail, heavy rains, or extreme heat, they can affect the timeline and budget of your project. This is why proper planning is crucial. Having a backup plan for several possible circumstances will help you navigate around them and troubleshoot any delays.
With this in mind, here are some conditions that can have significant effects on your project and how you can navigate around them:
Extreme Heat and Cold
Extreme temperatures are not new to Canadians, but intense heat and cold can both have a significant effect on your excavation projects. Both extremes carry major risks to the workers, especially if they do not have the necessary equipment to safely handle these conditions. Many construction companies provide guidelines and gear to work around these temperatures, and it’s important to ensure that all safety precautions will be followed.
When it comes to extreme heat, workers are at risk of dehydration, exhaustion, and even heat stroke. In these conditions, it’s advisable to make certain that the workers are sufficiently hydrated. It’s also best to work at a slower pace to prevent overexertion.
Dealing with extremely cold temperatures can also pose significant risks to workers. Hypothermia and frostbite can lead to serious complications, so it’s best to ensure that they’re properly equipped with cold-weather gear. However, wearing multiple layers of clothing can weigh them down and reduce their working efficiency.
Extreme temperatures on both ends also have implications for the machinery and equipment being used. You may have to employ snow-plowing services to prevent damage to materials and machinery.
Heavy and Consistent Rains
Rain can be a huge, unpredictable threat to your projects, especially when you’re working at a low-altitude site. Heavy or consistent rainfall can also cause many problems, sometimes for weeks at a time. Flooding can occur due to these conditions, which can be dangerous for the workers and your equipment. The excavation site will also experience weathering and erosion due to the flood, creating significant delays.
Working in the rain can also be difficult for workers because of muddy and slippery conditions. They will have to regularly clear out paths and clean equipment to prevent damage.
Strong Winds
Dealing with extreme winds can be rather tricky. These conditions can knock off debris and equipment. The wind sometimes causes them to fly off and hit people and property. When dealing with strong gusts, you’re better off avoiding the use of equipment such as cranes and others that the wind can easily dismount. While it may result in a slight delay, rescheduling these tasks will help you avoid damaging machinery and injuring workers.
Hailstorms
Although not as common as rain, snow, and strong winds, hailstorms should also be taken into account because they can be extremely dangerous. Hail can easily damage your machinery and deal serious injuries to workers. It’s best to avoid working in these conditions altogether.
The Takeaway
Various unforeseen weather conditions can and do occur year-round, which can cause some delays in your excavation projects. Although these events are uncontrollable, proper planning will help you better navigate your way around them. Working with reliable professionals will also be a huge factor in carrying out a successful project, as they will be equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to deal with various conditions.
If you’re looking for excavating services in Alberta and Southwest Saskatchewan, DL Nagel Excavating has you covered. Our skilled professionals have the knowledge and equipment to carry out quality excavation projects for you. Employ our services and contact us today!