GOMBAK, Nov 19 — The collapse of a steel scaffolding structure, which crushed a moving car, at an East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project site along the MRR2 yesterday has been attributed to a collision between the structure and a skylift.
Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said initial investigations by the Occupational Safety and Health Department (DOSH) found that the skylift hit the scaffolding while the subcontractor was performing paint thickness checks.
“The protective structure was not designed to withstand the force of the impact, making it fail upon collision.
“The high-risk test was done without a written work permit from the main contractor, China Communications Construction (Company) Sdn Bhd,” he told a press conference after visiting the incident site near the Gombak toll plaza today.
After the incident, the Public Works Department (JKR) ordered the scaffolding dismantled to avoid another collapse.
Rahman said the skylift boom operator has been called up for investigation.
“A detailed investigation is being done. We are not pointing fingers as long as the investigation is pending. If found guilty, strict action including penalties will be enforced,” he said, according to a Sinar Harian report.
He added that the DOSH has performed comprehensive checks on ECRL network sites near main roads to ensure all works meet safety standards.
“Contractors must adhere to the Occupational Safety And Health Regulations (Construction Work) (Design And Management) 2024, including by ensuring risk assessments are performed from design to completion,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said the victim whose car was crushed, a woman in her 40s, was not seriously injured, but is traumatised.
“The victim was given three days’ sick leave, while her car was declared a total loss. The matter has been handed over to relevant insurance parties and agencies,” Rahman added.
