Tower Crane Hoist Drops 50–60 Metres, Seriously Injuring Technician in Tilburg

30-Second Takeaway

A 34-year-old crane maintenance technician was seriously injured after an externally mounted tower crane hoist dropped between 50 and 60 metres at a construction site in Tilburg, the Netherlands. The incident occurred on Friday, September 26, while the technician was using the hoist to carry out inspection or repair work. The Labour Inspectorate has launched an investigation, and the site’s main contractor and crane operator, Hujmans, has confirmed full cooperation.

Incident Overview

A serious hoist incident occurred in the Havendijk area of Tilburg, Netherlands, last month involving a tower crane hoist / external elevator.

According to information received, a 34-year-old Belgian crane maintenance technician was using the externally mounted lift when it dropped between 50 and 60 metres. The incident resulted in serious injuries.

Emergency services responded, and the injured man was transported for medical treatment. No fatalities were reported.

What Is Known

• Location: Havendijk area, Tilburg, Netherlands

• Date: Friday, September 26

• Equipment involved: Externally mounted tower crane hoist / elevator

• Victim: Male, 34, Belgian crane maintenance technician

• Activity: Inspection or repair work

• Fall distance: Approximately 50–60 metres

• Outcome: Serious injuries

Companies and Official Response

The main contractor and crane operator on the site is Hujmans, which issued a statement expressing shock and regret following the incident.

The company confirmed that it is:

• Cooperating fully with authorities

• Supporting the ongoing investigation

  
  

The Dutch Labour Inspectorate has launched a formal investigation into the incident.

Investigation Status

At the time of publication:

• The cause of the hoist failure has not been determined

• Technical details surrounding the hoist system remain undisclosed

• Further information is not expected until the investigation concludes

Crane Hub Global will update this article if verified findings are released.

Why Incidents Like This Can Occur

Tower crane hoists and external elevators rely on:

• Redundant braking systems

• Guide rails and anchorage integrity

• Regular inspection and functional testing

Failures can occur due to mechanical malfunction, brake system failure, guide rail issues, or maintenance-related factors, particularly when hoists are used for inspection and repair activities rather than routine transport.

Industry Reminder

Tower crane hoists are critical safety systems. When failures occur, consequences are severe due to the significant heights involved.

This incident highlights the importance of inspection discipline, safety system redundancy, and conservative access planning, particularly during crane maintenance activities.

Editorial Note

Crane Hub Global reports on crane-related incidents to support industry awareness and prevention. This article reflects information available at the time of publication and will be updated if official findings are released.

How Incidents Like This Can Be Prevented

Hoist Brake and Safety Device Testing

Regular functional testing of primary and secondary braking systems, overspeed governors, and safety catches is critical.

Inspection Before Maintenance Use

Hoists used for inspection or repair work should undergo pre-use verification, especially when technicians rely on them as sole access systems.

Redundancy and Fall-Protection Planning

Where feasible, additional secondary fall-protection measures should be considered for maintenance personnel.

Controlled Access and Permit Systems

Maintenance operations involving hoists should be subject to permit-to-work procedures, clearly defining risks and controls.

OEM-Aligned Maintenance Regimes

Inspection and servicing should follow manufacturer-specified intervals and procedures, with detailed documentation.