Inspection Detail

Inspection: 313149502 - International Masonry Inc.

Inspection Information - Office: Columbus Area Office

Investigation Summary

At approximately 11:20 a.m. on July 1, 2009, Employee #1, #2 and #3 were installing flashing from an outrigger platform on the front of a tubular welded scaffold, when the company manufactured outrigger corner bracket failed. The three employees and two scaffold planks fell as a result of the failed bracket. Employee #1 fell approximately 37 ft to the ground and was killed. Employee #2 fell approximately 12 ft and landed on a scaffold brace. He was able to pull himself into the building. Employee #2 was later admitted to the hospital. Employee # 3 fell approximately 20 ft, and was caught up in a scaffold frame, but was able to be helped to safety. He was treated at the hospital and released. The company manufactured "side" bracket was modified by having another bracket arm welded onto it at 90 degrees, thus allowing the modified bracket to be attached to the scaffold in a manner inconsistent with the manufacturer's instructions, and in violation of OSHA and ANSI standards. The modification to the collapsed side bracket allowed the platform loading to be incorrectly applied at the scaffold upright, and was the main cause of the collapse. The preexisting damage, in the form of a crack and bend in the bracket's steel at the lower applied loading point, contributed to the structural failure.

Keywords: COLLAPSE, UNSECURED, FALL, FALL PROTECTION, SCAFFOLD, UNSTABLE POSITION