Inspection Detail

Inspection: 307584482 - Framecon Incorporated

Inspection Information - Office: Nv-E-Las Vegas 0953220

Investigation Summary

On April 23, 2004, Employees #1, #2 and #3 and six coworkers were attempting to lift a 12-ft high by 56-ft long framed wall onto the exterior plate-line anchor bolts of a residential house. The wall was constructed of 2-in. by 6-in. Douglas fir studs, top and bottom plates, with one door opening having a header 10-ft long by 6-in. wide by 12-in high, one standard, 4.0 by 5.0 window opening, and three 2-ft by 2-ft bay windows with 6-in. by 6-in. headers in each window. Employees #1, #2, and #3 and six coworkers had the wall raised to approximately head level. At this point, due to the weight of the wall and its improper alignment with the anchor bolts, the decision was made by the job foreman, to lower and reposition the wall rather than to raise it to a standing position. The weight of the wood framed wall was estimated at approximately 1,700 lbs. Due to the weight of the framed wall and the decision to reposition it, they proceeded to lower or 'walk it down' in a concerted effort. As the wall was being lowered, it slipped and jerked forward, causing the two coworkers to the right or East end of the wall to completely release their grip on the wall. This release caused a 'domino effect' with respect to the weight of the wall. Ultimately, all employees and coworkers released their hold and the wall subsequently struck Employees #1, #2, and #3. Employee #1 was killed. His head was pinned between the wall and cement slab. Employee #2, who also was pinned underneath the wall, injured his back. Employee #3 was struck by the falling wall injured his right ankle. Employee #2 remained in the hospital over night for observations, and Employee #3 was released the same day.

Keywords: WALL, PINNED, CONSTRUCTION, FALL, STRUCK BY, FALLING OBJECT