Crane Operator and Contractor Cited for January Crane Collapse
The construction crane that collapsed on January 9, injuring seven construction workers, was trying to lift too much. It’s this, and the lack of action by supervisors on the job, that has left the crane operator and the contractor facing significant fines.
According to WPTV.com, the operator and the company will each face “at least” $64,000 in fines for five violations each. The developer and site safety manager were also cited with one violation each.
The crane was lifting more than double its load capacity, according to the city Buildings Department. This is what led to its collapse on that day several weeks ago.
The accident happened near the East River in Queens’ Long Island City community. Three workers had to be extricated from beneath the fallen equipment; although there were no life-threatening injuries, the accident could have been far worse. The entire boom (170 feet) collapsed and took part of the building’s wooden frame with it.
In addition to trying to lift more than twice its load capacity, the crane operator reportedly couldn’t see the load and was trying to move the construction materials outside of an approved zone at the time. His license was suspended immediately following the crane accident.
The safety manager and developer are both accused of “failing to safeguard people and property during construction.” They face over $2,000 in fines, as it is their responsibility to ensure work at the job site adheres to safety regulations.
As of last week, the site was still on a stop-work order (common after a major accident and investigation), though the company believes this will soon be lifted.
Crane accidents are nothing new in the city. As a matter of fact, two fatal crane accidents in 2008 prompted the city’s building commissioner to resign and have renewed interest into crane and construction safety issues in general.
The city’s Buildings Department responded to those accidents by hiring more inspectors, changing crane licensing requirements, expanding inspections, and toughening testing. Now, a crane accident is usually cause for serious repercussions even if no one is hurt.
The city and construction officials are slowly getting on track with the measures that can have the greatest effects on keeping workers safe. Increased inspections and tightened sanctions can only help.
But accidents will still happen. And when they do, workers need someone looking out for them.
The construction accident lawyers of Ginarte are here to represent injured construction workers, whether you are involved in a crane accident or a fall. If you’ve been hurt while on the job, contact us today to discuss your case at 888-GINARTE.
