Updated March 28 - Added OHSA details

A photo of a dangerously perched excavator whipped up a storm of condemnation on social media yesterday - but authorities say the image was taken months ago.

In the photo, the excavator can be seen sitting atop a mound of loose earth at the edge of a large building site in San Ġwann. A reader who sent in the photo said the machine posed a danger not only to its operator, but also to those working below. 

A spokesman from the Occupational Health and Safety Authority said that inspectors had visited the site in January after receiving a report about dangerous practices there. 

"Our inspectors found irregularities and we have since taken all necessary legal steps," the spokesman said. He declined to provide further details, saying the issue would be settled in court. 

Spotted a health and safety danger? Let the OHSA know by calling 21247677 (99496786 outside of office hours) or by emailing ohsa@gov.mt