Two Workers Cling to Life After 10m Fall in Birkirkara

Two construction workers, dangling from safety harnesses, were left clinging to life after a terrifying 10-meter fall down an open shaft at a construction site in Birkirkara. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday morning at a site on Triq il-Kbira, through the local community and raised questions about safety standards in the construction industry.

Rescue Operation

Emergency services were swiftly called to the scene, where they found the two men, both in their 30s, suspended in mid-air, their harnesses having snapped during a fall from the upper floors of the apartment block. Firefighters and Civil Protection volunteers worked tirelessly to secure the men and lower them to safety. The operation, which lasted over an hour, was a test of nerves for all involved, with the workers’ families and colleagues looking on in horror.

“It was a miracle they were wearing harnesses at all,” said a witness who wished to remain anonymous. “If they hadn’t been, they wouldn’t have stood a chance.”

Safety Concerns

The incident has once again brought safety concerns in the construction industry to the fore. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA), falls from height are one of the most common causes of workplace fatalities and serious injuries in Malta. In 2020 alone, there were 146 reported falls from height, resulting in 74 injuries and one fatality.

“This could have been a lot worse,” said OHSA CEO, Abigail Mamo. “We need to remind employers and employees alike that safety is not just a priority, it’s a right. We will be investigating this incident thoroughly to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”

Aftermath and Investigation

The two workers were rushed to Mater Dei Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment for serious injuries. Their conditions are described as stable but critical. The construction site has been closed pending an investigation by OHSA and the police.

“Our thoughts are with the workers and their families at this difficult time,” said a spokesperson for the construction company involved. “We are cooperating fully with the authorities and will leave no stone unturned in getting to the bottom of this.”

Hot Malta will continue to follow this story as it develops. If you have any information or would like to share your experiences with workplace safety, please get in touch.