Truck-Mounted Platform Boom Failure in Palermo Kills Two
30 Second Takeaway
Two workers died and another person was injured when the boom of a Bizzocchi KJF 430W truck-mounted platform failed during work on an apartment building in Palermo, Sicily. The platform was working at about 33 metres, installing panels beneath a balcony, when the boom buckled near the base of its third section. The basket fell onto the roof of a tyre shop below. Investigators are examining the machine’s condition, setup and suitability for the work.
Incident Overview
Via Ruggero Marturano, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
The incident occurred on Friday, April 10, during refurbishment work at an apartment building. Two workers were in the platform of a Bizzocchi KJF 430W truck-mounted platform, installing panels beneath a high-level balcony, when the boom failed.
The two workers died. A third person, reported to be an employee at the tyre shop below, was injured when the falling platform struck the shop’s awning.
What Happened
Based on information available at the time of publication:
Two workers were using a Bizzocchi KJF 430W truck-mounted platform to install panels beneath a balcony.
The work was taking place at a height of about 33 metres.
As the platform telescoped toward the work area, the boom buckled near the base of its third section.
The platform fell onto the roof of a tyre shop below.
The two workers in the platform died.
A person at the tyre shop was injured when the basket struck the shop’s awning.
Palermo authorities opened an investigation into the incident.
What Is Known
Equipment involved: Bizzocchi KJF 430W truck-mounted platform
Chassis: Three-axle Iveco
Maximum working height: 43 metres
Platform capacity: 300 kg
Incident type: Boom failure and platform fall during work at height
Location: Via Ruggero Marturano, Palermo, Sicily
Work scope: Installing panels beneath an apartment balcony
Fatalities: Two workers
Other injury: One person at the tyre shop was injured
Investigation status: Ongoing
Early Observations
The platform was reported to have its four-section main boom and three-section articulating jib extended as it reached toward the work area. The truck was positioned at a street corner, with outriggers on one side set on the pavement and the other side in the road.
The reported failure point was near the base of the boom’s third section. Investigators are examining the platform’s position, maintenance condition and suitability for the work. The cause of the boom failure has not been established.
Why This Incident Was Possible
The cause of the boom failure remains under investigation. The machine was working at considerable height and reach, but those details alone do not establish whether it was overloaded or improperly configured.
Investigators are examining the platform’s condition and maintenance, the setup and position of the truck, the work being carried out, and the workers’ training and protective equipment. No specific contributing factor should be treated as confirmed before the investigation concludes.
Industry Reminder
Truck-mounted platforms must be selected and set up for the work, including the required height, outreach, platform load and ground conditions at each outrigger. The machine’s load chart and operating limits should be followed throughout the task.
Workers should use the required fall-protection equipment and follow site procedures for work at height. Nearby businesses and members of the public should also be protected from the potential fall zone.
Editorial Note
Crane Hub Global reports on crane, access equipment and lifting-related incidents to support industry awareness and learning.
This article is based on information available at the time of publication. The cause of the boom failure remains under investigation.
How Truck-Mounted Platform Incidents Can Be Prevented
Confirm the Machine Suits the Task
Check that the platform’s working envelope and capacity cover the required height, outreach, personnel and materials.
Set Up on Suitable Ground
Assess the surface beneath each outrigger and use appropriate support. Consider pavement edges, road surfaces and any changes in ground level.
Follow Capacity and Configuration Limits
Use the manufacturer’s load chart and operating instructions for the machine’s actual setup. Account for the combined weight of workers, tools and materials in the platform.
Inspect and Maintain the Boom
Carry out required inspections and maintenance, and remove equipment from service if defects or unusual movement are found.
Use Fall Protection and Control the Work Area
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable site requirements for fall protection. Establish an exclusion zone below the work area and protect nearby businesses and pedestrians.
