Struck-By Swinging Object

Struck-by-swinging-object injuries can occur when materials are mechanically lifted, causing them to unexpectedly swing, twist, or turn. Windy conditions are especially hazardous because the load will swing more.

Depending on where the worker is standing and the force behind the load, the worker may fall to another level after being struck, and sustain even greater injuries.

In addition to swinging, loads can slip from their riggings and strike workers. Loads must be rigged properly to prevent slippage and motion retraction.

Example of Accident Related to Struck-By Swinging Hazards

Two workers were instructed by their supervisor to set up on a ground slab in the southeastern corner of a building. They were to land and place reinforcing steel using a crane. A truck crane was positioned at street level, 30 feet higher in elevation than the ground slab and approximately 162 feet from the landing area. The landing area was approximately 40 feet beyond the radius limit for the crane, as specified by the manufacturer. The 24-piece bundle of 28.5-feet-long #9 rebar that was to be picked up and loaded onto the crane's hoist line was at street elevation, 50 feet in front of the crane. The operator made the pickup and was swinging around and lowering it to his left using hand signals when the right pennant line broke at the yoke/bridle. One of the workers was too close to the boom radius. The boom collapsed, striking the worker on the head and killing him.

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