Pipeline worker killed by crane

RELATIVES of 21-year-old Leon Jackman, who was killed instantly by a crane on Tuesday on the cross-country gas pipe-laying project, are seeking a full-scale investigation into the mishap. Jackman, of  St Mary’s Village, Moruga, was crushed after the boom of the crane slammed into him at the project site in Debe Village, Penal. Exactly why Jackman was standing near the crane while it was lifting a hudge pump around 3 pm,  Jackman’s brother Andy yesterday told Newsday, would be the subject of a full-scale investigation by a representative of the workers. Jackman was employed with API/Bechtel  which is currently laying down a 35-inch gas pipeline from Mayaro to Atlantic LNG in Point Fortin.

The incident occurred around 3 pm on Monday and, according to a police report, Jackman was standing with his back turned to the crane. Reports stated that the boom of the crane suddenly swung in Jackman’s direction and struck him in his back. The boom crashed his body against another pump. An ambulance rushed Jackman to the San Fernando General Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. API/Bechtel contract workers’ representative, Wilfred Edwards, has called for a full-scale investigation into the incident. Edwards said the fatal accident was an example of the problems contract workers face. Edwards said, “Local workers are treated with insensitivity and disdain.”

He said an independent investigation will be conducted into the incident. Andy told Newsday that workers who witnessed the incident told him that Jackman died instantly, but his body was left in the mud for more than an hour before the company’s ambulance arrived. However, he accused API/Bechtel of insensitivity. “Imagine a security guard was sent to our home to find out what we want — a security guard,” Andy said. Determined to get justice for his brother, Andy said he would be seeking legal advice. Jackman has been living with his sister, Leanne, since their parent’s death a few years ago. Andy said Jackman was engaged, but had not yet set a date for his wedding. “He had his whole life in front of him. We have to get some sort of compensation for his death,” Andy said.