WorkSafe investigates de-sal pipeline crane collapse

A team of inspectors and investigators has been at the site, on a property in Stuart Rd Kernot (near Grantville) in South Gippsland, after a 17m section of a gantry crane fell around 10.15am this morning.

WorkSafe understands the crane was being disassembled and that the worker, thought to be aged in his mid 30s, rode the structure about seven metres to the ground.

The section which fell almost hit a boom lift (cherry picker) which was also being used in the area.

The crane has been used to lift sections of pipe in to a trench.

The worker was taken by road ambulance to Dandenong Hospital and is understood to have been released this afternoon.

Gantry cranes have a lifting unit which runs along rails. They are able to be moved across the length and width of the site. They are most commonly used in factories.