There was a crane accident at the Boston Harbor Shipyard and Marina in Boston, Massachusetts on November 7, 2024. At the time, the crane was transporting a section of floating pier into Boston Harbor. One of the straps securing the pier failed, causing it to fall onto a boat in the water below. Additional details have not yet been released.
The recent crane accident at the Boston Harbor Shipyard and Marina highlights the unique risks associated with crane operations in a maritime setting. Cranes are essential for moving heavy materials like floating piers, large cargo, and equipment into and out of the water, but their operation requires meticulous attention to safety protocols, as any failure can have disastrous consequences. In this case, the failure of a strap led to the pier section falling onto a boat below, a situation that could have resulted in severe damage, injury, or even loss of life. Proper maintenance of lifting straps, chains, and other securing mechanisms is critical in maritime crane operations, where saltwater exposure and harsh weather conditions can compromise material integrity over time.
One of the main risks when operating cranes near or over water is the challenge of securing loads against the elements. Saltwater, high humidity, and frequent temperature fluctuations in maritime environments can degrade the materials used in securing straps, cables, and other crane attachments. If not inspected regularly, these materials can weaken, leading to unexpected failures. A proactive maintenance schedule that includes testing the strength and condition of all crane components, particularly those in contact with seawater, could help prevent accidents by ensuring all materials are up to standard.
In addition to material wear, the dynamic nature of maritime environments adds another layer of complexity to crane operations. Tides, waves, and wind create unpredictable movements, making it harder to stabilize both the crane and the load. Even a slight shift in the load due to a sudden gust or wave can place unexpected stress on securing straps and rigging points, increasing the chance of failure. Operators should be trained to assess weather conditions, account for tidal movements, and make adjustments accordingly. Additionally, using specialized maritime-rated straps and rigging designed to withstand variable loads and weather conditions could enhance the safety of crane operations in harbors and shipyards.
Rigging failures, such as the one in Boston Harbor, also underscore the importance of thorough pre-operation checks and adherence to lifting capacity guidelines. Each crane and rigging system is rated for specific load limits, and operators must ensure that these limits are not exceeded. Overloading a crane or using improperly rated straps or cables can cause them to snap, as may have occurred in this incident. Ensuring that every load is correctly assessed and that each component used in the lift is rated for that weight can help prevent these dangerous failures. Routine checks to verify the load ratings of every strap, chain, and fastener are essential in environments where heavy and irregularly shaped objects are regularly moved.
Finally, effective communication and clear safety protocols are paramount in maritime crane operations, where multiple workers may be involved or in close proximity to a lift. In this accident, the crane’s proximity to vessels and the potential presence of personnel in the fall zone highlight the need for well-defined safety zones and real-time communication between crane operators and ground or water-based teams. Establishing clear communication protocols and designating safe areas for onlookers or assisting crew members can minimize the risk of injury. Accidents like the one in Boston Harbor illustrate the critical need for thorough planning, routine maintenance, and robust safety measures to manage the unique challenges posed by crane operations in maritime settings, ultimately safeguarding both personnel and property.
There have been a number of recent incidents involving vessels. The captain of the anchor handling ship ATLANTIC POWER sustained injuries in a fall on October 22, 2024. There was a deadly boat explosion in Dania Beach, Florida on October 25, 2024. There was a boat fire in Long Breach, California on November 1, 2024. There was a fire on the dredge Stuyvesant on November 2, 2024. There was a medical emergency on the oil tanker SFL FRASER on November 3, 2024. A crew member suffered a stroke on the Polaris Voyager on November 5, 2024.
Our experienced lawyers handle maritime personal injury and wrongful death litigation of all kinds and 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 maritime accident. The lawyers of Spagnoletti Law Firm have handled maritime lawsuits throughout the country.
The experienced and aggressive accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to maritime injuries, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 to learn more about your rights.