Here we have just such a situation in New Zealand. A bridge is being constructed over a small river. A beam of some sort is being placed on the partially constructed bridge. We have what looks like plenty of crane on each side of the river, outriggers are down, with plenty of cribbing to spread the load. The adventure opens with two workers pointing to a crack developing under one of the outriggers. It appears both operators are communicating, and the rush begins to put the load down safely and get the crane to safer ground. It’s too little too late, the beam gets set down just as the ground gives way. The operator gamely stays at the controls and spins the crane around in an apparent attempt the get the weight behind the crane and prevent disaster, but over it goes into the drink. Had he bailed out the situation could have been worse for other workers.

Typical of Youtube keyboard commandos and sidewalk superintendents, everyone knows what they would have done to prevent this. And we all know what they say about the similarities between opinions and a certain unmentionable orifice. In this case we have a commenter who claims to have first hand information on the situation. He said they had been working there for a while, had made other lifts with no problems. Engineers had checked the soil for compaction and whatnot, and all was cleared for takeoff. However, recent heavy rains had softened the soil and possibly undermined the area. He also informs us the operator was okay.  So even when everything has been done correctly, things can still go south in a hurry.