Worker struck by mobile crane during lifting task (20 March 2026)

Lifting operations were being undertaken at a construction site using a mobile crane, with workers positioned in the surrounding area. During the lifting operation, a dogman climbed onto the crane deck to collect slings located on the far side of the crane deck. The worker climbed with their back to the counterweight, which was slewing in their direction. The crane continued to slew as part of the lifting operation, pinning and dragging the dogman between the toolbox and counterweight.

Blue and grey crane at a construction site, shown from the front with stabiliser arms extended, with a building structure and trees visible in the background.
Image 1: Crane involved in incident.
Crane midsection showing the narrowing gap between components, with railway sleepers attached and an orange flag fixed to one of them.
Image 2: Gap where worker was pinned.
                                                                                                                              

Safety information

Common risks associated with working around slewing mobile cranes include:

  • workers being struck or crushed by moving parts of the crane (for example, slewing superstructure)
  • people accessing unsafe areas of plant during operation
  • inadequate exclusion zones around operating plant
  • poor communication between workers involved in lifting operations
  • failure to follow safe access procedures.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated when working around mobile plant.

Ensure:

  • exclusion zones are established and maintained around the crane, particularly within the slewing radius, to prevent unauthorised access
  • no person accesses the crane or its operating deck while the crane is in operation, unless it is designed for safe access and or the plant is isolated
  • clear procedures are in place for accessing and egressing plant, including requirements to stop and isolate equipment before access
  • effective communication systems are established between the crane operator, dogman and other workers, including clear stop-work protocols, such as2-way radios, whistles and hand signals.
  • all workers understand the hazards associated with slewing cranes, including crush zones and blind spots and control measures to protect against the risk of being crushed
  • the crane operator holds the appropriate High Risk Work Licence and is competent in operating the specific crane
  • a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is developed and implemented, identifying hazards such as interaction with moving plant and defining appropriate control measures
  • supervision is provided to ensure workers follow safe systems of work, particularly during high-risk activities
  • signage and physical barriers are used where necessary to reinforce restricted areas.

Related guidance material

Further information

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