09.10.2015
Crane operator rescued
A crane operator who suffered a heart attack was rescued with the help of another tower crane in Stockton, California, yesterday. The operator’s cab was at a height of more than 60 metres,
The emergency services were called by the main contractor Turner Construction Company, two firemen then climbed the tower to the operator’s cab. Once there they administered CPR, while another tower crane raised a rescue stretcher to the scene. The man was then strapped in and lowered to the ground. He was unconscious when he left site.
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The operator is lowered to the ground
We understand that fire-fighters had visited the construction site within the past few weeks to discuss possible rescue scenarios for just such an event. The department said that training had prepared crews for yesterday’s rescue.
UPDATE
We have been informed that the crane operator - James George Bates, 55, died from the effects of the attack. He was declared dead at the hospital shortly after arrival.
Very sad. 55 years young! Must have been horrible for him to suffer alone up there in his cab. May you rest in peace crane operator.
My deepest sympathy to his family, his colleagues and the two firemen .