Table of Contents
How many people died on the Sydney Harbour Bridge?
During the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from 1923 to 1932, only 16 men died from bridge-related work. Of those 16, only two fell to their deaths from the bridge. Although this number may seem low, it still highlights the dangers and risks that come with constructing a massive structure like the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The Construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia, spanning over 1,100 meters and standing over 134 meters tall. The construction of the bridge began in 1923 and took almost a decade to complete. During this time, workers faced numerous challenges and dangers, including working at great heights, working with heavy machinery, and working in harsh weather conditions.
The Dangers of Building the Bridge
Despite the dangers, the workers on the Sydney Harbour Bridge were highly skilled and dedicated to their craft. They worked tirelessly to ensure that the bridge was built to the highest standards, and they took great pride in their work. However, accidents did happen, and unfortunately, some workers lost their lives during the construction process.
One such worker was Vincent Kelly. Kelly was a riveter who was working on the bridge in 1930 when he fell from the bridge and landed on a safety net. He survived the fall but suffered severe injuries, including a broken back and ribs. Despite his injuries, Kelly was determined to return to work on the bridge, and he did so just a few months later.
See Related: How much does it cost to maintain the Sydney Harbour bridge?
Safety Measures on the Bridge
To minimize the risks to workers, safety measures were put in place on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Safety nets were installed beneath the bridge to catch workers who fell, and workers were required to wear safety harnesses when working at great heights. In addition, medical facilities were set up near the bridge to provide immediate medical attention to injured workers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the number of deaths during the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge may seem low, it is still a reminder of the risks and dangers that come with constructing such a massive structure. The workers who built the bridge were highly skilled and dedicated to their craft, and they worked tirelessly to ensure that the bridge was built to the highest standards. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, the Sydney Harbour Bridge remains an iconic landmark and a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess.
Related Resources:
Leave a Reply