New STS Crane Collapses at Port of Fort-de-France, Martinique
Updated: Dec 29, 2025
30-Second Takeaway
A new ship-to-shore (STS) crane collapsed at the Port of Fort-de-France in Martinique on Thursday, September 18. Two people were treated for minor injuries and a further ten for shock. One man was trapped on the 60-metre-high crane for more than five hours before being rescued by fire and rescue services. The crane was part of a newly delivered fleet and had just completed a three-month installation and testing programme. An investigation into the cause of the collapse is underway.
Incident Overview
A ship-to-shore (STS) container crane collapsed at the Port of Fort-de-France, Martinique, on Thursday, September 18th.
Emergency services responded to the incident, which involved multiple personnel on or near the crane at the time of the collapse. While no serious injuries were reported, several individuals required medical attention.
What Is Known
Location: Port of Fort-de-France, Martinique
Date: Thursday, September 18
Equipment involved: New ship-to-shore (STS) crane
Height: Approximately 60 metres
Injuries:
Two people treated for minor injuries
Ten people treated for shock
Rescue:
One man trapped in the cab or machinery area
Rescued after more than five hours using a ladder platform operated by fire and rescue services
The trapped individual was assessed following rescue and did not suffer physical injuries beyond shock and side pain.
Statements From Port Authority
Bruno Mencé, Chairman of the port, stated:
“The rescued man was not injured as such but was suffering from shock and had a pain in his side.”
He also confirmed that a psychological support unit was dispatched to the scene within one to two hours of the incident.
Crane Background
The collapsed crane was one of two new-generation STS cranes delivered to the Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique in May.
Manufacturer: Shanghai-based Dinson
Joint venture partner: AES (France), designer of port handling equipment
Status at time of incident:
Completing a three-month installation and testing programme
Not yet fully operational in regular service
Unconfirmed Observations
Based on available photographs, there are indications that:
The front legs and rail wheels may have failed, or
An issue may have occurred with the new rail or track system
These observations have not been confirmed and should not be considered a determination of cause.
Investigation Status
A technical investigation team is currently examining the incident to determine the cause of the collapse.
At the time of publication:
No official findings have been released
No conclusions have been confirmed regarding structural, installation, or track-related factors
Crane Hub Global will update this article as verified information becomes available.
Why Incidents Like This Can Occur
STS crane collapses during commissioning or early service phases may involve factors such as:
Rail alignment or track settlement issues
Load transfer between crane legs and wheel assemblies
Installation or commissioning tolerances
Interaction between crane structure and quay infrastructure
Newly installed cranes undergo significant stress during testing and final alignment phases, making early monitoring and verification critical.
Industry Reminder
STS cranes are among the largest moving structures in ports. Early-life incidents particularly during commissioning, underscore the importance of installation accuracy, interface integrity, and disciplined testing protocols.
The absence of serious injuries in this incident was fortunate given the scale of the equipment involved.
Editorial Note
Crane Hub Global reports on crane and port equipment incidents to support industry awareness and prevention. This article reflects confirmed information available at the time of publication and will be updated as official findings are released.
How Incidents Like This Can Be Prevented
Rail and Quay Interface Verification
Comprehensive verification of rail alignment, fixation, and load distribution is essential before and during commissioning.
Progressive Load and Movement Testing
Commissioning programmes should include incremental testing, with hold points for inspection before advancing to higher loads or full travel.
Structural and Wheel Assembly Monitoring
Critical components such as leg structures, wheel bogies, and rail interfaces should be monitored closely during early operation.
Emergency Response Planning
Rescue procedures for personnel working at height must be clearly defined, practiced, and supported with appropriate access equipment.
Independent Commissioning Review
Third-party inspection and certification during commissioning can help identify early-stage issues before cranes enter service.
