Crane accidents are a stark reminder of the dangers that come with operating heavy machinery. While these incidents often make headlines due to the sheer scale of destruction and loss, they are, in most cases, preventable. At CICB, we firmly believe that proper training for crane operators, riggers, and signal persons can significantly reduce the likelihood of these tragic events.
Here, we’ll look at some notable crane accidents in the U.S. and explore how comprehensive training could have changed the outcome.
Recent Crane Accidents in the U.S.
1. Seattle, Washington – April 2019
In one of the most devastating crane collapses in recent history, a tower crane fell in downtown Seattle, killing four people and injuring others. Investigations revealed that the crane had been prematurely disassembled, and pins were removed too early in the disassembly process, causing the collapse during high winds.
Could this have been prevented? Proper training on crane disassembly and handling in weather conditions could have saved lives. Knowing how to dismantle equipment safely is crucial for operators, rigging crews, A/D directors, and anyone around the worksite. With the right skills, professionals can make informed decisions under pressure.
2. Austin, Texas – September 2020
In Austin, a crane collision at a construction site left 22 workers injured. Two cranes working in close proximity became entangled due to improper coordination between operators and signal persons. This kind of accident underscores the importance of clear communication and the pivotal role of signal persons in preventing disasters.
How can training help? Crane signal person training is vital to ensure smooth operations, especially on crowded worksites. At CICB, we train signal persons to effectively communicate and coordinate with operators, minimizing the risk of accidents in high-stakes environments.
3. New York City – February 2016
A crawler crane collapsed while being lowered during high winds in lower Manhattan, killing one person and injuring three others. The investigation found that the crane operator was in the process of securing the crane when the accident occurred. Wind conditions and proper securing procedures had not been adequately assessed.
What’s the solution? CICB offers operator training that focuses on understanding environmental factors like wind speed, which can drastically affect crane operations. Ensuring that operators are well-versed in how weather can impact crane stability is key to accident prevention.
The Role of Training in Accident Prevention
Crane accidents like those mentioned above often share a common factor: a lack of proper training or communication. Whether it's due to inadequate knowledge of disassembly procedures, poor coordination between crane operators and riggers, or failure to assess environmental risks, these incidents highlight the importance of comprehensive training.
According to Traveler's Insurance, over 44% of injury claims in construction are from new employees still within their first year of employment.
At CICB, we are committed to providing the highest level of training for crane operators, riggers, and signal persons. With locations in Houston, TX, Orlando, FL, and Phoenix, AZ, as well as the ability to travel to any job site across the U.S., we offer flexible and thorough training programs designed to meet the specific needs of your team.
Our instructors are nationally certified with extensive experience, ensuring that your crew gets real-world training tailored to the unique challenges of your work environment. Whether you need classroom instruction, hands-on experience, or on-site training, CICB has you covered.
Invest in Safety – Train with CICB
By investing in proper training for your crane operators, riggers, and signal persons, you’re not only protecting your workers but also avoiding costly fines, downtime, and potential lawsuits. Prevent accidents before they happen by ensuring your team has the skills and knowledge to operate safely.
CICB offers crane and rigging certification courses and on-site training that address real-world risks and challenges. Contact us today to learn how we can help improve the safety and efficiency of your crane operations.
