Worker Crushed by Swinging Load: What Went Wrong

What Happened

November 2023. A Toronto-area propane company was replacing a large tank. A worker was positioned between the tank and a wall when the crane holding the tank swung unexpectedly.

He was crushed. He died.

What the Investigation Found

The Ministry of Labour investigation identified multiple failures:

• No swing control: The load wasn't controlled to prevent rotation or swing
• Worker in the danger zone: The victim was positioned where a moving load could strike him
• Inadequate protective devices: Required safeguards weren't in place before the lift began

The company was convicted of violating Ontario Regulation 851 and fined $375,000. Understanding Ontario's evolving OHS regulations is critical for every employer.

Why Loads Swing

Every rigger knows loads can swing. But under production pressure, this knowledge gets ignored.

Loads swing when:

• The hook isn't directly over the centre of gravity
• The crane moves while the load is suspended
• Wind or vibration acts on the load
• The load catches on something during the lift

A swinging load is an uncontrolled load. And you never stand where an uncontrolled load can reach you.

The Real Failure

This wasn't a technical failure. The crane worked fine. The rigging was probably adequate.

This was a planning failure. Someone decided it was acceptable for a worker to be in the swing radius of a suspended load. That decision killed him. A proper safety consulting review of lifting operations could have identified this gap.

What Should Have Happened

1. Pre-lift planning: Identify the swing radius. Establish exclusion zones. No one enters until the load is stable and secured.
2. Tag lines: Use tag lines to control load rotation from a safe distance.
3. Stop work authority: Any worker should be empowered to halt the lift if someone is in the danger zone.

The Question for Your Workplace

When was the last time you watched a lift at your site? Where were workers standing? Would you bet $375,000 - and a life - that your current practices are adequate?

If you're not sure, that's your answer.