Bridge crane collapse (14 March 2024)
A 10-tonne bridge crane collapsed at a workshop while being operated by two workers. The crane was being used to conduct bucket flips in a manufacturing process for front end loader buckets. The process involved rotating the buckets to complete work on the underside. A bucket weighing approximately 7-tonne was being flipped using the crane when the crane and attached bucket collapsed to the floor. No one was injured in the incident.
![A bridge crane inside a warehouse, collapsed on its side.](https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/image/0004/1307884/bridge-crane-collapse.jpg)
![A crane bucket.](https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/image/0006/1307886/bridge-crane-collapse-2.jpg)
Safety information
Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with operating bridge cranes.
Ensure:
- the rated capacity of the crane is not exceeded, refer to the operator’s manual or crane specifications
- the weight of the load is calculated prior to being hoisted
- a test lift is conducted to ensure load security and stability
- when slinging loads, consideration must be given to:
- the weight of the load
- reeve and angle factors
- size of the load
- slinging technique
- hoisting clearances
- the crane hook is positioned over the load’s centre of gravity to avoid dragging or snigging the load
- lateral tolerances or side loading of the crane are not exceeded
- an exclusion zone is set up around the plant and any loads
- workers do not perform work on a suspended load
- the workpiece (load) is placed on appropriate supports and remains detached from the crane while undertaking work
- crane attachments are securely attached and used to perform the tasks in the manner they were designed for by the original manufacturer
- the path of travel is clear from obstructions when a load is hoisted by a crane, and the load remains under control
- workers receive adequate training and instruction
- workers are supervised by a competent person
- workers hold valid high risk work licences for the bridge crane if the crane is operated from a cabin or a remote if it has more than three powered operations
- instructions and work procedures are translated for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) and migrant workers
- workers complete a site induction prior to commencing work
- a risk assessment is completed prior to commencing work
- safe systems of work are developed and followed
- appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn
- lifting equipment such as slings are inspected before and after use and discarded if damaged or if wear tolerances are exceeded
- crane pre-start and operational checks are carried out to check for defects and to ensure the crane is safe to use.
Related guidance material
- Managing the risks of plant in the workplace – Code of Practice (PDF, 1987.96 KB)
- At-risk workers
- Translated resources
- High risk work licences
- Guide for crane operators (PDF, 1225.66 KB)
- The pocket guide to construction safety (PDF, 1759.1 KB)