06.05.2003

Two die in German crane accident

Three tower cranes working on the Interconti-Hotels project in Dusseldorf collapsed April 29th killing two construction workers and seriously injuring three others. Initial comments from a firebrigade spokesman at the scene suggested that the accident occurred when foundations for one of the cranes, a Liebherr top slewing tower crane, apparently collapsed. German police have now launched an investigation to see whether charges should be brought against any of the companies or individuals involved on the site.

According to eye witness accounts the number of casualities was greatly minimised by the actions of Heinrich Dorissen, operator of one of the other tower cranes on site. He apparently saw that the first crane, which was unoccupied at the time, was collapsing toward a nearby school and immediately swung his crane jib across the path of the falling crane. This deflected the first crane away from a school hall in which students were taking end of year exams. Dorissen was also able to shout a warning over the radio which allowed about 20 fellow workers to run for safety. He subsequently escaped with minor injuries after his own crane collapsed.

The cranes on site were assembled by Streif Baulogistik. The hotel is being built by E. Heitkamp GmbH.