Tower Crane Safety Alert After Near-Miss Incidents

October 29, 2024. The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development has issued a safety alert regarding the inspection of hoist reduction gears in tower cranes (https://www.ontario.ca/page/alert-inspection-tower-crane-hoist-reduction-gear). This alert follows two recent “near miss” events where faulty gears caused crane loads to drop uncontrollably.

The alert underscores the critical need for regular inspections and maintenance of hoist reduction gear assemblies to prevent similar incidents. It also reminds employers, constructors, and suppliers of their legal obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). Specific recommendations for inspecting hoist gear reduction assemblies are provided. For further details on ensuring compliance with OHSA requirements, please refer to the CAN/CSA-Z248-17 Code for Tower Cranes.