I worked extensively as a costruction Millwright (sawmills) during the eighties and nineties when we still had sawmills. A portable lift truck like this would never have been allowed on a bridge construction site. It has no outriggers to balance itself. It has no reinforced cab to prevent operator death in case of rolling. In fact, this machine is not even classed as a crane. Since the BC Liberals took office a substancial part of WCB WHIMIS regulations are being ignored by private contractors trying to cut costs. Proper cranes with skilled operators cost money. I guess the contractor thought it cost too much to protect his workers. An all too sad and common thing in BC today. Just look at the logging deaths in the last 6 years. From a trades perspective, this province has a cheap and dangerous reputation. No wonder we lack skilled trades here.

Posted January 28, 2008 12:15 PM

Q| Having viewed this tragic mobile crane accident on the television, my questions are, did this machine not have a sufficient ROPS? If not, why not? Did this unit have a seat belt installed ? Was the seat belt functional? When was the last time this unit was inspected by anyone competent enough to do so? When was the last recorded safety meeting held on this job site?

My condolences to Milson and Andrew's family, friends.

A| Your questions are very specific to the incident on the Canada Line, and it's tough to get those kinds of answers while an investigation is under way.

But, I've got some general information for you, which is closely connected to your queries.

Mobile cranes are not required to have any kind of rollover protection (ROPS). The Canadian standards which deal with protecting mobile crane operators while in the cab, focus on protecting the operator from the weather.

Wheel mounted mobile cranes with a single workstation require a seatbelt for use while the crane is traveling, or in transit.

Mobile cranes must be inspected prior to use on each work shift, and periodically depending on the frequency of use. In addition, an annual inspection must be signed off on by a Professional Engineer, stating that the crane is safe to use in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Thanks for your questions, and your concern about crane operators' safety.

Posted January 25, 2008 08:08 PM