Safety Management at Tower Crane in Construction Site

Tower cranes are critical in high-rise construction but present significant safety risks due to their structural characteristics and operational complexity. This study analyzed 73 serious tower crane accident cases reported to the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency between July 2012 and July 2020. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining quantitative accident data analysis with surveys and expert interviews. Statistical proportions were calculated to identify high-risk factors. Lifting operations accounted for the highest proportion of accidents (45.3%), with falls being the most common disaster type (35.8%). The leading cause of accidents was non-compliance with safe work procedures (38.8%). Survey and interview findings highlighted insufficient training, lack of standardized signal protocols, and limited on-site safety supervision. Strengthening training programs, standardizing signal operations, and enforcing systematic safety management can significantly reduce tower crane accidents. Policy recommendations and a framework for continuous monitoring are proposed.