A tragedy has sparked scrutiny on the safety of remote-controlled cranes in the UK. The death of Bolton-born driver Michael Harrison, who was crushed by a crane, has led to a coroner’s warning. Key factors included the lack of an audible alert in the crane system and a concerning report by his employer. Investigations have highlighted important safety recommendations.
The tragic incident involving Michael Harrison, a father of two from Bolton, has raised serious questions about the safety of remote-controlled loader cranes in the construction industry. Harrison, aged 42, was killed when the crane arm he was operating to unload scaffolding descended unexpectedly, crushing him. This unfortunate event occurred at Anwyl Homes’ Victoria Mills site in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire.
According to the coroner, Jacqueline Devonish, the remote control used by Harrison, which was worn over his head and chest, had not been isolated during the unloading process, allowing the crane arm to move unintentionally. A significant finding of the inquest was the absence of an audible sound from the crane while it was in operation, which might have prevented the accident.
The managing director of Harrison’s employer, 3D Scaffolding, had previously expressed safety concerns regarding the crane system. In a letter, he requested the addition of an audible alert and advocated for a two-handed operation design following an internal safety review. Unfortunately, it remains unclear to whom this letter was addressed, whether to a manufacturer, a plant-hire company, or another entity.
Further complicating the situation is the clarification provided by the manufacturer, who stated that a ‘Hiab crane’ was not involved in this incident. The term ‘Hiab’ is often used generically, much like ‘Hoover’ for vacuum cleaners. Nevertheless, the coroner highlighted deficiencies in the ‘Hiab design’ concerning the lack of audible alerts.
The incident spurred a joint investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Cheshire Constabulary. Their findings indicated that no legal offences were committed. Despite this, the coroner’s report has prompted the Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers (ALLMI) to review the remote control systems. ALLMI, along with HSE, Cheshire Constabulary, and 3D Scaffolding, have until 8 August to respond to the coroner’s findings.
The tragic loss of Michael Harrison underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in remote-controlled crane operations.
