West London Tower Crane Jib Falls, 100 Evacuated From Building Site

About 100 people were evacuated from a West London building site after a crane jib detached. The site is now closed.
By Newsroom | Construction, Safety |

The jib of a tower crane detached from its fixing on a Hill Group site in west London earlier this week, prompting the evacuation of approximately 100 individuals and the closure of the site for investigation. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, resulted in no reported injuries. The Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade attended the scene.

Over 100 evacuated from building site after crane collapses in west London - 1

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been made aware of the crane arm incident. Investigations are underway, involving the crane's manufacturer, with a report to be issued to the industry. The site, where 83 new homes are being built—including units for social rent and key workers—will remain closed until the situation is fully assessed and resolved.

Over 100 evacuated from building site after crane collapses in west London - 2

Response and Immediate Aftermath

Emergency services, including two fire engines from Hammersmith Fire Station, were dispatched to the site just after 10 am. Officials stated that the around 100 people on site had already left before the fire brigade arrived. The Metropolitan Police confirmed their officers and firefighters responded.

Read More: Victoria Government Responds to Construction Report

Over 100 evacuated from building site after crane collapses in west London - 3

The collapse specifically involved the 'jib', the horizontal arm of the tower crane. The company overseeing the development has stated the site will be inaccessible until the investigation is complete, the area is made safe, and construction can resume.

Over 100 evacuated from building site after crane collapses in west London - 4

Context and Broader Concerns

This event raises questions about 'construction safety' protocols in London. Guidance on incident reporting and oversight is available through the 'UK Health and Safety Executive'. The swift response from authorities underscores the seriousness with which such incidents are treated.

The development project includes plans for 83 new residences, designated for various housing needs, alongside a multi-use sports facility.

Historical Echoes

While distinct from the current event, the London area has seen other structural failures. In July 2014, a derelict seven-story building in Hounslow partially collapsed, causing debris to scatter and temporarily cutting power to a nearby Tube station. No injuries were reported in that instance, despite the significant disruption. Another event in November 2020 saw dozens evacuated from homes following house collapses in west London.

Read More: Football league will not replay match after Billy Vigar's fatal collision

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened at the West London building site on Wednesday morning?
The horizontal arm (jib) of a tower crane detached from its fixing. Around 100 people who were on the site were evacuated before emergency services arrived.
Q: Were there any injuries when the tower crane jib detached in West London?
No, thankfully, there were no reported injuries from the incident where the crane jib detached. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene.
Q: Why is the West London building site closed after the crane incident?
The site is closed for a full investigation into why the crane jib detached. It will remain closed until the situation is assessed, made safe, and construction can safely restart.
Q: Who is investigating the tower crane incident in West London?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed and is investigating. The crane's manufacturer is also involved in the inquiry.
Q: What is being built at the West London site where the crane jib fell?
The site is planned to have 83 new homes, including homes for social rent and key workers. There are also plans for a multi-use sports facility.