SAN ANTONIO – New details have emerged regarding the partial scaffolding collapse that disrupted weekend traffic in downtown San Antonio.
The incident occurred near the San Fernando Cathedral, but the road has since reopened, and no injuries were reported.
The city’s Development Services provided insights into the safety measures required for such projects.
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According to the department, safety and protection protocols for construction workers and projects are verified through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
As part of OSHA requirements, a “competent worker” must inspect the structural integrity of scaffolding each day before work can continue.
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Wiggins from the city’s Development Services stated that while safety protocols were followed, the collapse was not due to structural integrity issues.
Instead, it was caused by improper weight distribution when a portion of bricks was placed on the scaffolding.
Attempts to reach MDM Scaffolding, the company owning the structure used by the contractors, for further comment were unsuccessful.
However, similar incidents have been reported in the area, including a 2019 case where a 100-foot scaffolding fell onto St. Mark’s Episcopal Church due to strong winds.
The city has assured that it will continue to monitor scaffolding safety to prevent future incidents.