Fatal crane tragedy: DOSH issues stop work order on construction site

The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has issued a stop work order against a construction site where a crane hook collapsed on top of a car in Jalan Raja Chulan, here yesterday.

DOSH also said it is also launching a comprehensive investigation to prove if those responsible for the site’s safety had been negligent in carrying out their duties.

Legal action would be imposed if any bad practices are proven, said DOSH in a statement Friday.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (1994), it said, the site's main contractor is responsible for ensuring the safe use of tower cranes on the construction site.

READ: WOMAN DIES AFTER CRANE HOOK HITS CAR ON JALAN RAJA CHULAN

“The Factories and Machinery Act (1967) also require tower cranes to be installed and maintained by a competent company registered with DOSH.

“The competent company shall be appointed by the prime contractor to carry out regular inspection and maintenance on a regular basis, according to the specifications by tower cranes manufacturer,” the statement said.

A thorough probe will be carried out to ensure whether those responsible performed their duty responsibly.

“We are also in the midst of conducting forensic investigation to determine the cause of the accident and to prevent such accidents from recurring in future.

DOSH said it views seriously every accident that occurs especially those involving death, regardless of whether it involves construction crew or the public.

“Legal action will be taken if there is any foul play by the responsible parties.From time to time, DOSH will continue to review and improve its safe work procedures when necessary to ensure the health of workers and public is assured,” it said.

Kuala Lumpur police Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Rosdi Mat Isa told Astro AWANI today that the police is in the midst of searching for the crane operator to assist investigations.

It was reported Thursday that a woman was killed after a crane hook fell onto her car at Jalan Raja Chulan in the 7.20pm incident.