Two construction workers were killed Saturday when a crane collapsed at the University of Texas (UT) at Dallas campus, according to the Associated Press.
On Saturday the school reported on its website that there was an accident on campus Saturday afternoon during the dismantling of a crane at the Arts and Technology Building, which is under construction.
“The accident claimed the lives of two workers with an outside construction company,” the post said. “There are no reports of UT Dallas students, staff, or faculty injured in this accident. Students, staff, faculty and community are encouraged to stay away from the southeast side of campus. The University extends its condolences to the families of those involved.”
On Sunday, the UT System’s Office of Facilities Planning and Construction released this statement:
<em>A construction crane at the University of Texas at Dallas’ Arts and Technology Building collapsed Saturday afternoon, killing two construction workers. The crane was being dismantled when it fell across the building.
The two workers were employees of Harrison Crane and Hoist, an outside construction firm. No UT Dallas students or employees were injured. Our sympathy and deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and colleagues of the two workers killed in this tragic accident.
Our primary concern at this point is maintaining the safety of the students, faculty and staff, and of the site construction workers.
The cause of the accident is under investigation. OSHA was notified immediately, and their investigation staff arrived on-scene last night. Engineers have been engaged to assess the damaged crane and to develop a plan to safely remove it from the site.
Both OSHA and independent investigators will review this plan and witness the safe removal of the crane and repair to the damaged facility. Work is not expected to resume until after the completion of the OSHA investigation and removal of the damaged crane.</em>
Monday, the university website reported that UT Dallas student leaders were organizing a “Moment of Reflection” at noon Wednesday on the campus mall to honor the two construction workers who were killed.
The website said:
<em>The event is a response to student concern over the accident, said Gene Fitch, dean of students.
“This is a way in which we can honor the deceased and show our respect to the families of those who lost their loved ones. It also is an opportunity for us to grieve as a community,” Fitch said.
Student Government president Raj Dwivedi will address the gathering at “Spirit Rock,” just outside the Green Hall at the center of campus. Dr. Tom Linehan, director of the Arts and Technology program, also will offer remarks.
The offices of Student Affairs and Student Volunteerism are helping to coordinate the event, which is open to the public.</em>
The university is also offering free counseling services to students and faculty in need of help after Saturday’s accident.