Sad loss of Ad Swanink

It is with great sadness that D&Ri has learned of the passing of Ad Swanink, owner of Dutch demolition innovator STC BV, in a tragic industrial accident involving the world's highest reaching demolition rig, which was undergoing modification at a yard belonging to Prima Equipment.

At the time of going to press, the circumstances surrounding the incident are far from clear and are the subject of investigations by Dutch health & safety authorities. However, D&Ri understands that while the boom was being elevated from the ground, for some reason the undercarriage detached from the carbody, which then collapsed. The dynamic force of this collapse in turn sheered the rear counterweight away from the main upper structure.

Irrespective of the nature of the cause or causes of the accident, whether human or mechanical and which will no doubt be determined in due course, the loss of Ad is a great one. D&Ri would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and work colleagues. True innovators do not come along very often, and Ad will be greatly missed by all.