On Saturday 2 May, 2020 at around 3.30 pm, an accident with a crane occurred in the port of Rostock (Germany). The accident happened in the final test phase, shortly before delivery of Liebherr-MCCtec crane HLC295000. During the test, the 5,000t crane hook failed for reasons as yet unknown. Based on current knowledge, experts believe that this caused the crane to swing back and eventually collapse. The load at which hook failure occurred was provisionally determined at approx. 2,600t.

At Ropeblock we are deeply moved by these events. First of all, our hearts go out to the wounded and all others involved in the accident. We greatly appreciate the emergency services’ swift and adequate response. At the same time, we are appalled at the impact that this incident has on our customer Liebherr, but certainly also on the industry as a whole.

Ropeblock provided the design of the crane’s lifting blocks, including the crane hook. Manufacture of said crane hook was then purchased from a certified supplier who is familiar with parts of similar and larger sizes. Prior to manufacture the design has been verified by the authorized Notified Body.

The limited current information seems to confirm that the hook’s stem broke. However, the exact course of events and cause remain unknown for now. They are part of an integrated investigation, which will also zoom in on the manufacture of the hook.

With 25 years of service Ropeblock is a respected and proven partner for the heavy lift industry. Consequently, we are sincerely shocked by this incident and will fully commit ourselves to the independent integrated investigation that is now underway to find out the true course of events and cause as soon as possible.

In view of the required objectivity of the ongoing investigation and the different interests and obligations we have to serve, we are currently unable to make any further statements. We ask for your understanding.