Safety Measures Activated After Crane Failure at Hinkley Point C

A crane load failure occurred at the Hinkley Point C construction site in early November 2025. The incident involved two large formwork shutters being lifted by a crane. One shutter broke in half, causing the other to fall. No workers were injured thanks to established safety exclusion zones.

The event was captured on video and shared widely. Main contractor Bylor immediately suspended all similar lifting operations. An investigation into the precise cause is now underway.

Main Contractor’s Swift Response and Investigation

Bylor, the joint venture of Bouygues and Laing O’Rourke, leads the construction. Their response to the incident was immediate and decisive. All comparable lifting work was paused across the site. This halt allows for a full safety review.

According to Construction Enquirer, the stacked shutters were being moved in a routine operation. The failure of the bottom unit caused the unexpected drop. A Hinkley Point C spokesperson confirmed that safety is the highest priority. The pause ensures that all procedures are confirmed as safe before work resumes.

How Exclusion Zones and Safety Measures Prevented Injuries

The fallen shutter landed within a pre-designated exclusion zone. These zones are standard protocol for high-risk lifting activities. They ensure no personnel are in the drop path during operations. This proactive measure was crucial in preventing serious harm.

The system worked exactly as designed. Physical barriers and strict access control kept workers safe. The incident demonstrates the critical importance of these safety protocols on major construction projects. Vigilance and preparation turned a potential tragedy into a manageable incident.

H2Broader Implications for the UK Construction Industry

The Hinkley Point C incident serves as a stark reminder for the entire sector. Large-scale infrastructure projects involve complex and hazardous operations. A single component failure can have significant consequences. This event underscores the non-negotiable nature of robust safety planning.

Other major projects will likely take note of the response. The temporary shutdown for investigation shows a commitment to safety over speed. It reinforces that even routine tasks require the highest level of oversight and planning. The industry-wide focus on preventing such events is expected to intensify.

The crane load failure at Hinkley Point C tested the site’s safety systems under real-world conditions. The successful outcome, with zero injuries, validates the strict protocols in place. This event will undoubtedly influence safety standards for future nuclear and large-scale construction projects across the country.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Was anyone hurt in the Hinkley Point C crane incident?

No injuries were reported. The fallen equipment landed in a safety exclusion zone. This area was clear of personnel at the time.

Q2: What caused the formwork shutter to break?

The exact cause is under investigation. Engineers are examining the shutter’s integrity and the lifting procedure. A full report is expected upon the investigation’s conclusion.

Q3: How long will lifting operations be suspended?

Operations remain suspended pending the investigation’s findings. The contractor, Bylor, has not provided a specific timeline. Work will only resume once all safety protocols are verified.

Q4: Will this incident delay the Hinkley Point C project?

While the lifting pause causes a local delay, the overall project impact is likely minimal. The focus remains on resolving the safety issue promptly. Project leads are assessing the schedule implications.

Q5: What are formwork shutters used for?

Formwork shutters are molds used to hold wet concrete in place. They are essential for shaping structural elements like walls and columns. Their large size makes their movement a high-risk activity.