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SpaceX Cited for Crane Safety Violations After Collapse
20 Jan
Summary
- OSHA issued seven serious violations to SpaceX for a crane collapse.
- SpaceX faces a $115,850 fine for the crane incident at Starbase.
- The crane lacked proper inspection after recent repairs before collapsing.
SpaceX faces significant penalties after a June 2025 crane collapse at its Starbase, Texas facility. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued seven serious violations, resulting in a $115,850 fine.
OSHA's investigation revealed the hydraulic crane, a Grove RT9150E, was not adequately inspected after recent repairs. Citations indicate it was returned to service without verification against manufacturer specifications, and monthly inspections may have been neglected.
Further violations cited include improper wire rope inspections and missing safety load markings on rigging equipment. An employee was also found operating a different crane with an expired certification.
This incident occurs as SpaceX aims to increase Starship launches, supporting ambitious goals. However, the company has a documented history of injuries at the South Texas site, including a previous employee death and another recent crane-related lawsuit.
