11.10.2019

30 storey load drop

A load of steel beams were dropped from a tower crane in Cleveland, Ohio, yesterday, falling around 100 metres from the top of the 35 storey building onto the top of a four storey parking garage. We understand that the web slings used to lift the load failed, but have not been able to confirm this.
Please register to see all images

The beams were dropped from the top of the 35 storey building

The section that was struck partially collapsed under the impact, while at least one beam perforated the thick reinforced concrete panel, but thankfully no one was hurt in the incident.
Please register to see all images

The damage was substantial

Please register to see all images

At least one beam perforated the concrete

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration was called in and has started an investigation.
The main contractor is Gilbane Building, but we understand that this part of the construction was sub contacted to local firm Donley’s.

We will update this item if and when we learn more.

UPDATE

OSHA has determined that the load was too heavy for the lifting slings used, causing them to fail and the beams to fall. The federal agency cited Donley’s for three ‘serious’ violations relating to the incident, including overloading the rigging, failing to ensure the nylon straps used to lift the steel beams were in good condition, and failing to ensure no one was working underneath the steel beams when they were loaded on the crane. As a result it has been fined $39,780.

OSHA defines serious violations “incidents where there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result and that the employer knew, or should have known, of the hazard.”

Donley’s says that it is reviewing the findings and plans to request an informal conference to discuss them. The company has 15 days to appeal. The statement also said: “Safety is our number one priority at Donley’s. It is at the core of all of our values”.

OSHA also determined the main contractor Gilbane Building Co. did not commit any violations.