10.10.2007

Self erector topples in Austin

A self erecting tower crane tipped over at an Austin, Texas construction site yesterday, seriously damaging the partially built condominiums it was working on.

The site which is located at Red River Flats in downtown Austin had 40 construction workers on the buildiong in the vicinity of the crane when the accident happened, fortunately no one was hurt.
Please register to see all images

The crane tower fell into the building

So far there is no explanation of why the crane went over, it was apparently lifting around 850kgs (1,800 lbs) of two by four timbers.

According to the lead contractor, Greystar Development and Construction, the crane had a capacity of around 3,500 kgs (8,000 lbs) and that its overload system had not given any warning.
Please register to see all images

The cranes jib protruded from the other side

The crane and its operator are apparently employed by a sub-contractor, George M. Hall, and it was inspected only a few weeks ago. The operator was using the remote controls to operate the crane at the time and was well clear of it.

The site was closed after the incident while OSHA began investigating the accident, it says that side of the site will remain closed until its investigation is complete.

Vertikal Comment

This certainly looks like one of two things, an overload or an outrigger gave way/punched through the ground.

Osha should have little difficulty in identifying the cause.