Four Dead in Port Crane Dismantling Accident in Kawasaki, Japan
30 Second Takeaway
Four workers died and one was injured after a large counterweight fell during the dismantling of an old ship unloader crane at JFE Steel’s East Japan Works in Kawasaki, Japan. The incident occurred on April 7, 2026, while workers were dismantling the crane’s approximately 400-tonne counterweight, which fell around 35 metres. One worker initially remained missing; his body was found and identified in July, bringing the death toll to four. The cause remains under investigation.
Incident Overview
JFE Steel East Japan Works, Ogishima, Kawasaki, Japan
The accident occurred during dismantling of an old dockside crane previously used to load and unload iron ore from ships. Five workers were on or around the crane’s counterweight when it fell, taking workers and demolition equipment down to the dock.
The counterweight struck the dock structure, and a worker was reported missing after the incident. His body was found in July. One worker was injured and four died.
What Happened
Based on information available at the time of publication:
Workers were dismantling a dockside ship unloader crane at JFE Steel’s East Japan Works.
The crane’s cylindrical, concrete-filled counterweight weighed approximately 400 tonnes at the time of the incident.
A demolition machine was being used to break up the concrete, reportedly to reduce the counterweight’s weight before removal.
The counterweight fell approximately 35 metres with workers and equipment on or around it.
Five workers were affected: four died and one was injured.
One worker was initially reported missing. His body was found and identified on July 23.
Police searched the premises of the main contractor, TOA Corporation, and the demolition subcontractor, Besterra.
The investigation into the cause is ongoing.
What Is Known
Equipment involved: Dockside ship unloader crane and its counterweight
Facility: JFE Steel East Japan Works, Keihin district
Location: Ogishima, Kawasaki, Japan
Work scope: Dismantling an out-of-service crane
Counterweight: Cylindrical, concrete-filled component, approximately 400 tonnes at the time of the incident
Fall distance: Approximately 35 metres
Casualties: Four fatalities and one injured worker
Investigation status: Ongoing
Early Observations
The counterweight fell while workers were carrying out dismantling work on or around it. Reports said a demolition machine was breaking up the concrete so the weight could be reduced before removal.
The precise sequence; whether the counterweight, its support structure or another component failed first, has not been established publicly. Strong winds were reported in the area, but their role, if any, has not been confirmed.
Why This Incident Was Possible
The cause of the counterweight’s fall remains under investigation. Dismantling a major crane component at height involves managing the component’s weight and stability as the structure is altered.
Investigators are examining the dismantling method, support arrangements, equipment suitability and site conditions. These are areas of inquiry, not confirmed causes.
Industry Reminder
Crane dismantling plans should address how each major component will remain stable as surrounding structures and connections are removed. The plan should specify the sequence of work, temporary support, equipment and exclusion zones, with workers briefed on the method before demolition begins.
Weather conditions and work at height also require ongoing assessment. The investigation will establish which factors were relevant to this incident.
Editorial Note
Crane Hub Global reports on crane accidents, equipment failures and lifting-related incidents to support industry awareness and learning.
This article reflects information available at the time of publication. The worker initially reported missing was found in July 2026. The cause of the counterweight fall remains under investigation.
How Crane Dismantling Incidents Can Be Prevented
Engineer the Dismantling Sequence
Plan the order of dismantling, including how major components will be supported and controlled as their connections or surrounding structures are removed.
Verify Temporary Supports
Confirm that temporary works and support structures are designed for the loads and stages of the dismantling operation.
Control Demolition Equipment and Loads
Ensure the selected equipment and method are suitable for the component being dismantled and the work position.
Establish Exclusion Zones
Keep workers clear of potential fall zones and restrict access beneath suspended or unstable components.
Reassess Conditions During the Work
Monitor structural changes, support conditions and weather throughout the operation. Stop work if the plan no longer matches conditions on site.
