There was a crane accident in Centralia, Illinois on May 30, 2024. According to reports, a worker was struck by a 5,000 pound boiler that was being removed from a building at Kaskaskia College. During the removal process, a cable snapped and the boiler began rolling down a driveway. A worker was struck by the boiler, resulting in injuries. The worker was transported via helicopter to a hospital for treatment. The identity of the injured worker has not been released.
When a crane is used to move heavy objects like boilers, the operation involves significant risks, particularly if the cables securing the load snap. This type of failure can lead to catastrophic accidents, causing severe injuries or fatalities to workers and extensive damage to property. Understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures is crucial for ensuring safety during such operations.
The primary risk associated with crane cable failure is the sudden and uncontrolled drop of the heavy load. Boilers and similar heavy objects can weigh several tons, and the impact of their fall can be devastating. The dropped load can crush anything or anyone in its path, leading to fatal injuries or severe structural damage. To mitigate this risk, it’s essential to use cables that are appropriately rated for the weight of the load and to conduct regular inspections to detect any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
Another significant risk is the potential for the snapped cables to lash out with tremendous force. When a cable snaps under tension, it can whip around violently, posing a severe hazard to workers in the vicinity. The kinetic energy released can cause deep lacerations, broken bones, or even amputations. Ensuring that workers maintain a safe distance from the crane and load during lifting operations can help reduce the risk of injury from snapping cables. Additionally, using barriers or exclusion zones can keep unauthorized personnel out of harm’s way.
The failure of crane cables also underscores the importance of proper maintenance and adherence to safety protocols. Regular maintenance of cranes and their components, including cables, is vital to ensure they remain in good working condition. Training workers on the correct procedures for rigging and lifting heavy loads, as well as on the emergency protocols to follow in the event of a cable failure, can significantly enhance safety. Conducting pre-lift safety meetings and ensuring that all safety measures are in place before commencing any lifting operation can prevent accidents and save lives.
In conclusion, the risks associated with crane cable failure when moving heavy objects like boilers are severe and multifaceted. Preventive measures, including the use of appropriate and well-maintained equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and comprehensive worker training, are essential to mitigate these risks. At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we are committed to supporting workers who have been injured in crane accidents, helping them understand their legal rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been affected by a crane cable failure incident, our experienced legal team is here to provide the guidance and support needed to navigate the complexities of your case.
There have been a number of recent incidents involving cranes. There was a crane accident in Braintree, Massachusetts on May 1, 2024. One person was killed when a crane fell onto a cement truck in Houston, Texas on May 16, 2024. There was a deadly crane accident in Park City, Utah on May 18, 2024. There was a crane accident in Machesney Park, Illinois on May 20, 2024.
Companies, supervisors, and workers may not be fully aware of the hazards of operating cranes. As a result, they may not have implemented proper policies and procedures to minimize risks. One mechanism to safely evaluate and prepare for risks is through the use of a Job Safety Analysis (“JSA”) or Risk Assessment, which is standard in the industry. When this does not occur, it can result in catastrophic personal injury or death. In a JSA, each step of the job is examined to identify potential hazards and to recommend the safest way to perform the work in order to minimize those risks. According to OSHA:
A job hazard analysis is a technique that focuses on job tasks as a way to identify hazards before they occur. It focuses on the relationship between the worker, the task, the tools, and the work environment. Ideally, after you identify uncontrolled hazards, you will take steps to eliminate or reduce them to an acceptable risk level.
Our experienced lawyers have handled personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits of all kinds and have the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured as a result of a crane accident. The experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident involving a crane.
Our lawyers have represented numerous workers who have sustained serious and catastrophic injuries on a job site as a result of the negligence of another party. Our experienced attorneys have previously been involved in numerous lawsuits involving cranes. There are strict and short time limits on making claims, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.