(July 18, 2008)—Four contract workers died Friday when a crane collapsed at a Houston chemical refinery.
Six other workers were hurt, a company vice president said.
The crane, capable of lifting 400 tons, toppled at Houston’s LyondellBasell refinery.
Vice President John Roecker says the casualties were in the area of the crane.
Fire department officials say three of the injured were treated and released at the scene.
Two workers were taken by helicopter to a hospital, while other was transported via ambulance.
The crane belongs to Deep South Crane & Rigging.
Roecker says the crane was being used to remove large drums from inside a coking unit.
The roof had been cut off to allow access.
The crane wasn't scheduled for use Friday, but Roecker said its engine was idling after it hit the ground.
About 1,500 contract workers are employed at the refinery.
Roecker says all plant personnel have been accounted for.