Purnell announces Tower Crane Register

A statutory tower crane register should be in place by April 2010, according to James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, preceeded by a voluntary system starting later this year.

The register is part of a package of proposals aimed at improving tower crane safety that includes increasing the competence of those involved in erecting, operating, dismantling and examining tower cranes.

During the summer the HSE will consult with the industry, the public and interested parties.

Over the coming year it will also carry out targeted inspections to ensure the industry is following the guidance published last year using information gathered through the thorough examination system to improve targeting.

 
In announcing the scheme Purnell said: "It's unacceptable that people are dying directly as a cause of their work with tower cranes and I want to prevent this toll of human misery. It is also important that the package of measures is successful in both improving tower crane safety and improving public confidence in cranes."