A twin masted mastclimber platform collapsed in Benidorm, Spain, yesterday, resulting in the deaths of two people, while a third man escaped.
The two men, one 26 and the other 45, were apparently working on the finishing touches to an 18 month façade renovation project at Building 2 of the Principado Europa tourist apartment block on Calle Ibiza. They had both been trained in the safe use of mast climbing work platforms.
The third man, who not only survived but was unhurt, had reportedly started to dismantle the mastclimber from the top. He was left hanging from his harness/lanyard on the 13th floor of the 18 storey building. He was able to climb into an apartment once someone arrived who could open a window.
At least one of the two that fell was buried under the wreckage, the first was declared dead almost immediately and the other a few hours later.
According to a witness, the two men were working between the eighth and 11th floors at the time and were raising the platform when the incident occurred. We have heard that one of the masts came free, and the other gave way as the platform fell. BUT we should stress that we have not been able to corroborate this detail and currently only have the single local source who visited the scene.
Two investigations have been opened:
- A Judicial one, in which a magistrate will order proceedings to determine if there is any criminal liability, including manslaughter or non-compliance with safety regulations.
- And a safety one in which the work safety inspectorate will look at whether the contractor has complied with all current regulations and standards and will issue fines and penalties if negligence is found, these in addition to any imposed by the first judicial review.
Photos courtesy of Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos de Alicante and a local contact/contributor
The following news report/video provides a more extensive overview
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