Overview
Week commencing 12th January 2026, a workplace accident led to the death of a 41-year-old father of two. A 5-tonne transformer tragically fell onto the deceased during the lift and shift process. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased.
Details
A workplace tragedy in Colleferro, Italy. According to early official reports, a 41-year-old worker was crushed by a 5-tonne transformer while he was moving it with a forklift. Rome Fire Brigade dispatched the Colleferro 16/A team along with the crane truck from the Rustica station to respond to this workplace accident in the Piombinara area, which hosts several companies. Upon arrival, the firefighters together with the emergency medical personnel confirmed the death of the worker, who had been trapped underneath the large electronic apparatus. Full details are accessible here: https://www.romatoday.it/cronaca/erri-talone-morto-colleferro.html
Comments
Lifting, shifting, loading/ unloading activities are recognised as high-risk activities in construction, particularly with large, heavy and awkward loads – such as electrical equipment. Risks include load movement during transportation, falling loads, failure of lifting eyes, improper selection of mechanical aids, damage, ground collapse, crush injuries, and musculoskeletal injuries from improper lifting/ manual handling techniques.
Prior planning, training, and adherence to established safety protocols are crucial to mitigate these hazards. As for all construction-related activities, safe systems of work must be planned and followed.
A CIF working group was established in quarter 3 of 2025 to address concerns around the movement, lifting and installation of electrical equipment by consolidating best available industry guidance and protocols. This very tragic accident highlights the important work the working group is undertaking. The draft guidance will be finalised soon.