There was a crane accident in Waite Park, Minnesota on July 23, 2024. According to reports, a crane was being assembled when a portion of it fell from an elevated work station. The section of crane is believed to have landed on a worker below, killing him. The identity of the victim has not been released.
Assembling cranes is a complex process that poses significant risks of accidents, particularly due to the sheer size and weight of the components involved. One of the primary risks during crane assembly is the potential for structural failure. If any part of the crane, such as the boom or jib, is not assembled correctly or is damaged during the process, it can lead to catastrophic failure. This can result in the crane collapsing or parts falling, which can cause severe injuries or fatalities to workers and significant damage to property. Ensuring that all components are inspected for defects and that assembly procedures are strictly followed is crucial to mitigating this risk.
Another significant risk during crane assembly is the potential for human error. The process requires precise coordination and communication among the assembly team. Miscommunication or mistakes, such as improper bolting or securing of crane parts, can lead to unstable structures that might fail under load. Additionally, the use of inadequate or incorrect tools and equipment can compromise the integrity of the assembly. Comprehensive training for all personnel involved in the assembly, along with strict adherence to safety protocols, can help reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by human error.
Environmental factors also play a critical role in the safety of crane assembly. Weather conditions such as high winds, rain, or extreme temperatures can significantly affect the stability of the crane during assembly. For instance, gusty winds can cause components to sway or shift, making it difficult to align and secure parts correctly. Wet or icy conditions can lead to slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of slips and falls among workers. Monitoring weather conditions and scheduling assembly activities during favorable conditions can help mitigate these environmental risks.
Finally, the risk of accidents can be exacerbated by inadequate site preparation and planning. The assembly site must be properly prepared, with a stable and level foundation to support the crane and its components. Obstacles, uneven ground, and insufficient space can hinder the assembly process and create hazardous conditions. Detailed planning and site preparation, including ensuring that the ground can support the weight of the crane and that there is sufficient space for maneuvering parts, are essential for safe crane assembly. Regular safety inspections and continuous monitoring of the site can further enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.
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. There was a crane accident in Centralia, Illinois on May 30, 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.