New Crane Rules Go into Effect Days After Fatal Florida Accident

A new ordinance that beefs up safety measures for cranes is in effect in Miami, Fla., days after a fatal accident.

The new measure was actually prompted by a fatal crane accident in 2006. It requires crane operators to pass a written test and demonstrate their abilities to maneuver, shut down and secure the equipment.

Previously, heavy machine operators didn’t have to be certified.

A section of a construction crane crashed onto a Miami home earlier this week. Two people were killed and five more were injured. Investigators are trying to determine whether windy weather or operator error caused the accident.

Latest Comments

• April 3, 2008 at 11:39 am

  Jeff York says:

  John, Small step is right, but why let any Tom, Dick, or Harry in the seat without any hour requirement, you even get that when you get a learners permit to drive a car. A hai... read more
• April 2, 2008 at 2:38 am

  John says:

  I said step in the right direction, not the cure. As far as it being the problem you are very mistaken. What codes do they not meet?
• April 2, 2008 at 2:36 am

  John says:

  Don,t blame the operator, blame the company which allows a nonexperianced operator in the seat. Where do you expect an operator to get the training...a union? That will only h... read more