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Tower Crane Collapse
The recent tower crane collapse at Leith, Edinburgh, has sparked deep concerns about construction site safety and the significance of tower crane monitoring. This incident has highlighted the need for rigorous safety audits by suitably qualified, competent persons. In this article, we will delve into the details of the incident, the response from emergency services, and insights from industry experts.
The Incident
On the morning of 28th November 2023, a crane at Stead’s Place, a residential development site in Leith, Edinburgh, dramatically collapsed. The jib of the luffing crane, owned by Falcon Tower Crane Services, plummeted onto the under-construction flats, causing considerable damage.
Emergency Response
As soon as the incident occurred, emergency services were alerted and rushed to the scene. The Scottish Ambulance Service dispatched two ambulances along with their special operations team, who treated two people on site. Similarly, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were quick to respond, ensuring the area was secure and assisting in the ongoing operations.
Road Closures and Public Advisory
Given the severity of the situation, road closures were enforced at Leith Walk and Pilrig Street to facilitate the ongoing rescue and investigation efforts. The general public, including motorists and pedestrians, were advised to avoid the area for their safety.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses recounted the shocking incident, describing the sudden collapse of the crane’s arm and the subsequent chaos. The collapse caused part of the roof to cave in, leaving the construction workers and bystanders in a state of shock and panic.
Previous Incidents
This incident brings to mind a similar crane collapse in Glasgow in 2012, which resulted in one fatality and another person sustaining serious injuries. The Health and Safety Executive’s investigation into the Glasgow incident found the crane’s boom’s incorrect repair to be the cause of the collapse.
The Construction Site
The residential development project at Stead’s Place, where the incident occurred, has been under construction since July 2022. The 2.9-acre site, previously an industrial estate, is being transformed into 110 build-to-rent homes, with completion expected in mid-2024.
The Contractors
Collab Construction, a division of Drum Property Group, is currently leading the project. The previous lead contractor, Metnor Construction, went into administration in February. It’s noteworthy that Drum Property Group also owns Collab Construction.
The Crane Provider
Falcon Tower Crane Services, the company that owned and operated the crane, has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. They have, however, stated that they are currently unaware of any defect in the crane itself.
Health and Safety Executive’s Role
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the UK’s national regulator for workplace health and safety, is aware of the incident and has started conducting inquiries. The HSE plays a crucial role in incidents like this, ensuring thorough investigations and promoting safety standards across the industry.
Moving Forward: The Importance of Safety Audits
The recent tower crane collapse at Leith, Edinburgh, underscores the critical need for stringent safety audits in construction sites, particularly those employing tower cranes. Safety audits, conducted by suitably qualified competent persons, can help identify potential safety hazards and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to prevent catastrophic incidents like crane collapses.
Concluding Thoughts
As investigations into the incident continue, it’s crucial to remember that construction site safety, particularly when it involves the use of tower cranes, is of paramount importance. Regular safety audits, stringent adherence to safety standards, and proactive maintenance can go a long way in preventing such unfortunate incidents.
HSE Website Tower Crane Incidents
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