14.06.2004

Workers sue for injuries following Clapham crane collapse

Two Kent engineers, who were injured when a German built 100 tonne capacity Kirow 810(UK) rail mounted crane toppled over at Clapham Junction in January see news January 8, 2004, are to sue the crane’s owner Balfour Beatty Rail. Both men are said to have suffered serious psychological injury after running for cover when the crane collapsed.

Sam Hamel of Fenton Solicitors which is representing both men said: “Although we are uncertain about what caused the crane to collapse, the ultimate responsibly lies with Balfour Beatty as it has a duty to protect its employees.

“Both men were dangerously close to the crane when it collapsed, and both are continuing to experience symptoms as a result of the trauma. We are seeking an award from Balfour Beatty to compensate for the psychological injury and the cost of ongoing treatment that the men will need.”

The crane was carrying out routine point replacement duties lifting a 14 tonne load between Clapham Junction and Waterloo station when it toppled over blocking two of the four rail tracks into the UK’s busiest station, causing chaos for up to 75,000 commuters.

The Health & Safety Executive Railway Inspectorate has decided not to investigate, although the Rail Safety & Standards Board will be holding for a formal inquiry, the date of which has not been set.