Safety alert 01/2019 Collapse of truck mounted concrete pump with boom

In March 2019, a truck mounted concrete pump with boom (TMCPWB) collapsed on to an operator.  The injured person had his leg pinned by the boom, causing leg injuries.

Possible contributing factors in incidents of this type

• Ground under the TMCPWB insufficiently compacted.
• Underground services not identified. When pressure is placed on underground services such as pipes, they may be damaged causing soil subsidence.
• TMCPWB not correctly set up, for example:
  • Outriggers not deployed;
  • Incorrect placement of outriggers; or
  • Suitable materials not used to support outriggers. Suitable materials include perpendicular (‘pigstyed’) timbers. 
• Insufficient operator training or experience.
• Insufficient operator attention to the task of setting up the TMCPWB.

Managing the risks

1. Ensure a safe work method statement (SWMS) is in place for high risk construction work, including work on a construction site where there is movement of powered mobile plant.
2. The SWMS must be customised to include site specific hazards and controls.
   • Include the identification of all underground services.
3. Ensure the ground underneath the TMCPWB has been assessed as suitable to support the weight of the TMCPWB.
4. Set up the TMCPWB in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
   • If manufacturer’s instructions are unavailable, set up in accordance with Australian Standards AS 2550 and AS 1418.
5. Ensure the TMCPWB operator is adequately trained.
   • The applicable High Risk Work Licence is a minimum requirement, and further specific training may be required.
6. Operators should be fit to work and attentive to the job.

Further information

Australian Standards

• AS 1418.15 Cranes (including hoists and winches) Concrete placing equipment
• AS 2550.1   Cranes, hoists and winches – Safe use General requirement
• AS 2550.15 Cranes, hoists and winches – Safe use Concrete placing equipment

Industry guidelines

Cement Concrete and Aggregates Australia - Concrete Pump Delivery Industry Guidelines

The above information is provided based on WorkSafe’s preliminary investigation and further investigation is continuing.