Construction Worker Killed After Machinery Topples on Him

Picture from responders.

A incident occurred at a construction site in Charansanitwong Soi 57/2, Bangkok, where a 19-year-old worker lost his life after being struck by part of a pile-driving machine that toppled on him.

The incident took place near Wat Vimutt, at a residential construction site. Eyewitnesses reported that the worker, later identified as Anuwat, was involved in supporting the pile-driving machinery when it suddenly collapsed. The heavy machinery, struck him on the head and torso, pinning him partially beneath it.

Emergency responders arrived quickly, and although Anuwat initially showed signs of breathing, he later succumbed to his injuries despite receiving CPR and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on-site.

Anuwat’s colleagues described the moments leading up to the incident. They stated that the machine, a large three-legged pile-driving rig, began to tip over after encountering a large rock in the hole where it was being operated. The machine’s operator, who was Anuwat’s father-in-law, had shouted a warning that the equipment was about to detach from its hook. Anuwat attempted to flee, but the machine fell in the direction he was moving, crushing him.

The construction site had been active since early December, with pile driving being one of the initial stages of construction for a single-story home. The construction had been progressing without major issues until this unfortunate event occurred.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, focusing on possible miscommunication during operation. According to a statement from the site foreman, the process of using the drilling machine requires team coordination, and it appears that a brief lapse in communication, compounded by the loud noise of the machine, led to the fatal mistake.

The investigation continues, and the body of the deceased has been sent for autopsy. In the meantime, the police are questioning individuals involved in the incident as part of the legal process.

-- 2024-12-10