A massive 27-tonne mobile crane crashed through the roof of a bungalow in Basingstoke today after toppling over while lifting a load. The telescopic crane smashed into the house, causing significant damage just before 10am.
The crane’s cab driver was trapped inside after the machine lost balance. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene and used an aerial platform to safely rescue the operator. Fortunately, he escaped without any injuries.
The crane’s boom penetrated the bungalow’s roof and crushed the front wall. Additionally, an onsite portable toilet was flattened, though it was unoccupied at the time. No residents were inside the property, which was under construction during the incident.
The Health and Safety Executive has launched an investigation into the incident at Pitman Close. A second crane was brought in to remove the damaged machine from the wrecked bungalow.
A spokesman for Hampshire Fire and Rescue said: “The Aerial Ladder Platform was used to help extricate the man trapped in the cab who fortunately escaped injury. After the stop message at 11:06, one crew remained for vehicle and building stabilisation.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
