Crane topples into sea, 43-year-old operator dies from injuries

A Zejtun man, 43, has died from injuries sustained in a fall after a crane toppled over.

MaltaToday is informed that the crane was situated around the Freeport area, in the Medserv compound in Birzebbugia.

The man, Medserv employee Hubert Muscat, was the youngest of eight siblings.

He was rescued by Civil Protection, but later passed away at Mater Dei at 9:30am from injuries to his head and lungs sustained in the tragic accident.

In a statement Medserv said it was providing support to the victim’s family, as well as to staff who were distraught by this terrible accident.

Operations were suspended for the rest of the day.

“Safety is our top priority and an internal investigation has been launched. This is the first grievous accident in the company’s 40-plus-year history and we want to ensure we obtain a clear and detailed picture of the events that took place. A magisterial inquiry is also underway.

“Our own trained first aiders provided immediate support until first response units where onsite. We can confirm that there was no operation underway at the time and that the individual concerned was a qualified and experienced crane driver.”

This was the fifth fatal accident in 2016, two of which happened within the construction sector.

“This accident shows that such incidents are found in every workplace,” the Occupational Health and Safety Authority said. “We appeal once again for priority to be given to the health and safety that everyone is entitled to, employers and employees, and self-employed alike.

“We ask everyone to evaluate health and safety standards as reqired by law and for all prevention and protection measures to be taken as necessary.”