Construction Elevator Collapse at Turning Stone Resort Injures Five Workers

A construction elevator collapsed recently at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Oneida County, trapping five workers inside. This incident occurred during the removal of a temporary construction elevator attached to the new hotel structure. All five workers were rescued and transported to local hospitals with injuries, mostly broken bones. This post explores the details of the accident, the response efforts, and the ongoing expansion project at Turning Stone Resort.

Temporary construction elevator attached to new hotel structure at Turning Stone Resort

Details of the Elevator Collapse

The elevator fell approximately two to three floors while workers were inside. According to Joel Barkin, Vice President for Communications at Turning Stone Enterprises, the accident happened in a construction area far removed from guests and public traffic. This separation ensured no visitors were at risk during the incident.

All five construction workers trapped in the elevator were conscious when rescued. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to assist. The most serious injuries reported were broken bones, and no fatalities occurred.

Emergency Response and Investigation

Multiple local emergency units responded promptly to the collapse. Their swift action was crucial in safely rescuing the workers and providing immediate medical care. Turning Stone Enterprises expressed gratitude for the support and professionalism of these teams.

An investigation into the cause of the elevator collapse is ongoing. The company is working closely with authorities to understand what led to the failure during the elevator removal process. Safety remains a top priority as the construction project continues.

Emergency responders at construction site near collapsed construction elevator

Turning Stone Resort Expansion Project

Turning Stone Resort is currently undergoing a major expansion, including the construction of The Crescent Hotel and a large exposition center. This growth aims to enhance the resort’s offerings and attract more visitors.

In October, a tour of the construction site revealed that the expansion work was ahead of schedule. The temporary construction elevator was part of this large-scale project, facilitating the movement of workers and materials.

Despite the recent accident, the resort remains committed to completing the expansion safely and efficiently. The company continues to implement strict safety protocols to protect workers and guests.

Safety Measures and Worker Protection

Construction sites carry inherent risks, especially when heavy machinery and temporary structures like construction elevators are involved. This incident highlights the importance of:

• Regular safety inspections of equipment

• Proper training for workers operating or using construction elevators

• Clear communication and emergency preparedness plans

• Immediate response capabilities in case of accidents

  
  

Turning Stone Enterprises has pledged to review and strengthen safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Construction safety equipment and warning signs at Turning Stone Resort construction site

What This Means for the Community and Visitors

The accident occurred in a restricted construction zone, ensuring no guests were affected. Turning Stone Resort continues to operate normally, with no interruptions to visitor services.

The local community has shown support for the injured workers and emergency teams. This event serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by construction workers and the importance of workplace safety.

Final Thoughts

The collapse of the construction elevator at Turning Stone Resort was a serious incident that thankfully did not result in fatalities. The quick rescue of the five trapped workers and their transport to hospitals for treatment reflects the effectiveness of emergency response efforts.