Sources: The Straits Times
KUALA LUMPUR (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) – The Malaysian authorities have issued a stop-work order and an immediate safety audit on the Sungai Besi-Ulu Kelang Elevated Expressway (Suke) site where a crane toppled on Monday (March 22), killing three workers and injuring two others as well as a member of the public.
One of the injured is a Malaysian man who was the driver of a car, and he has been described as “gravely injured”.
Works Minister Fadillah Yusof said only rescuers would be allowed at the accident site.
“The contractor and its safety team must also come up with suggestions for better safety measures if they wish to continue with the project.
“The road here will be closed while an alternative route is being located. If no route is found, they have to explain to us how they will ensure safety while construction work is ongoing.
“Maintenance work was being carried out when the crane collapsed. Now, the priority is to stabilise the site,” he added.
Datuk Awang said employers had full control over all activities at their worksite, and that included conducting an effective risk analysis before allowing any of their employees to start work.
“This is to reduce risks and avoid any untoward incidents.
“The Occupational Safety And Health In Construction Industry (Management) 2017 also requires every party, including clients, designers and contractors, to act responsibly at worksites from the design stage of the project,” he said.
A Suke representative confirmed Monday’s incident, saying: “The incident may have occurred after one of the gantry crane components fell during maintenance work. The exact cause is still under investigation.”