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Tag Archives: crane accident

Harlem construction accident injures workers with falling crane

New York – Two construction workers were injured when a mini crane fell from the side of a building that they were working on. The falling crane accident occurred when one of the workers was operating the crane but was apparently not trained to do so. The crane was lifting a heavy glass panel when it fell forward and off the side of the open floor. It rolled over during the accident and fell several stories onto the ground below. The crane collapse left two ironworkers injured, including the man operating the machine. According to reports, the crane was not properly secured to the work surface as is required by safety operating guidelines. In addition, the construction company operating the device didn’t have the required safety permit and is under investigation. Supervisors for the construction employer have been arrested and are being charged for assault due to possible negligence that led to serious injuries of the workers.

Hospital officials report that the workers suffered life threatening injuries. These include a head injury with traumatic brain injury that left one of the workers fighting for his life. The other injury victim suffered spinal injuries. The neck and back injury can possibly leave the workman paralyzed and disabled. Investigations continue into the specifics of this accident and the following of safety regulations at the construction site. See this article for more about the roll over work site accident and investigation.

Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo Credit: johnrosman [License]

New York City crane collapses, injures man

New York – Investigators continue to look into the terrifying crane collapse that occurred in the middle of the Tribeca neighborhood of Manhattan’s downtown. Videos from the crane accident show that a crawler crane fell over and crashed across several city blocks. The heavy steel tower of the crane was apparently swinging a wrecking ball before it tipped over and crushed several cars beneath it. Rescue crews rushed to the accident scene and treated a man for crush injuries that he suffered after being trapped in his car. It is unclear as to what caused the equipment failure, with some pointing out that there was a light snow fall and winds that may have knocked it over. However, city officials were looking into whether or not construction safety protocols were followed and if any negligence was involved.

New York City has recently seen quite a few crane accidents, including another one involving the same crane company last year. That previous accident sent a heavy load of a metal air conditioning and heating unit crashing down into the side of the building. Ten injury victims were treated following that accident and an investigation opened into the cause. The mayor and city council have now started pushing for stronger penalties for construction companies that violate crane safety guidelines. Activists hope that this may prevent negligent maintenance and other violations that lead to accidents, injuries and death. You can find out more about this safety push here.

Illustrative Photo Credit: Jason Kuffer [License]