Inspection Detail

Inspection: 307916759 - Frank E Cotner & Son

Inspection Information - Office: Wilkes Barre Area Office

Investigation Summary

On July 29, 2005, Employee #1 was operating a Rubber Tired Grove Crane. The crane was used to hoist purlins onto the walls of a steel building. While on the ground, a hook was attached to purlin and it was lifted into place using a tagline. After the purlin was placed, the hook was detached and lowered to the ground. During the operation, the tagline became entangled. Employee #1 was instructed to untangle the tagline. The crane hook was lowered and he climbed onto the hoist cable without fall protection. With one foot in the sling, he held the hoist cable above the hook block with both hands. Then he was hoisted 29.5 ft into the air. As he attempted to untie the tagline from the purlin, he let go of the cable, causing the sling to swing sideways. The movement of the swing result in his lost of balance. He fell to the ground, landing on his back and head. He was flown by helicopter to a medical center where he remained in a coma until his death thirteen days later.

Keywords: ATTACHMENT HOOK, HEAD, BACK, OVERHEAD CRANE, FALL, FALL PROTECTION, LOST BALANCE