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Struck by Collapsing Crane Boom: Fatal Fact #4
Construction Company Type: General Contractor
Accident Description:
A crew of ironworkers and a crane operator were unloading a 20-ton steel slab from a low-boy trailer using a 50-ton crawler crane with 90-foot lattice boom. The operator was inexperienced on this crane and did not know the length of the boom. Further, no one had determined the load radius. During lifting, the load moved forward and to the right, placing a twisting force on the boom. The boom twisted under the load, swinging down, under and to the right. Two employees standing 30 feet away apparently saw the boom begin to swing and ran. The boom struck one of the employees - an ironworker - on the head, causing instant death. Wire rope struck the other -- a management trainee -- causing internal injuries. He died two hours later at a local hospital.
OSHA Recommendations:
- Train and test operators to determine qualifications: 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2) and 29 CFR 1926.550(b) ANSI B30.5 5-3.1.2.
- Require proper written procedures to insure the method for lifting is within manufacturer's specifications: 29 CFR 1926.550(a)(1).
Accident Details: Struck by Collapsing Crane Boom |
|
| Company Type: | General Contractor |
| Crew Size: | 9 |
| Union/Collective Bargaining? | Yes |
| Weather: | Clear |
| Worksite Inspection? | Yes |
| Designated Competent Person on Site? | Yes |
| Employer Safety and Health Program? | Yes |
| Training and Education for Employees? | Yes |
| Craft of Deceased Worker(s): | Iron Worker, Management Trainee |
| Age / Sex of Deceased Worker(s): | 35; male, 26; male |
| Experience or Time on Job: | 1 hour |
| Time on Project: | 1 hour |
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