Investigation continues into window washers crane jam
Nevada safety regulators are investigating why a crane holding four window washers malfunctioned Wednesday, leaving the men stranded 35 stories high outside of the Vdara Hotel at CityCenter, a state official said Thursday.
Steve Coffield, chief administrative officer with the Nevada Occupational Safety and Health Administration, said his organization is investigating why a mechanism that raises and lowers the washer box malfunctioned.
Coffield had no additional comment, citing an ongoing investigation.
The window washers called 911 shortly before noon. The last worker was rescued by 3 p.m.
Rescuers with the Las Vegas and Clark County fire departments stationed themselves on the Vdara's roof, more than 50 floors high. From there, one firefighter at a time rappelled from the roof to the workers and brought them down to safety.
The first firefighter to reach the workers gave them water. The window washers and firefighters communicated through cellphones. None of the window washers were injured.
Contact reporter Antonio Planas at aplanas@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-4638.
