Valletta shoppers were subjected to an all-too-familiar danger today as a crane operator moved a heavy metal skip back and forth above their heads.

In a video sent in by a Times of Malta reader, pedestrians can be seen walking in and out of a pharmacy on Old Theatre Street while tonnes of steel dangle right above them.

"Absolutely no form of safety," the outraged woman filming the dangerous event can be heard saying. "When Prince Charles was here nobody was allowed on the streets," she adds, "so what are these people?" 

Old Theatre Street is a popular street in the capital city and sees significant foot traffic at all times of day.

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This is unfortunately not the first time reckless builders have shown disregard for health and safety laws. In April, a crane operator was caught on camera while he moved an excavator above pedestrians' heads in St Julian's, while in July a mechanical shovel was lowered to the ground while oblivious drivers passed beneath it on Rue d'Argens in Gżira.

Just a few weeks ago, two separate crane accidents came close to causing tragedies, causing roofs to cave in. 

Times of Malta has passed on a copy of this latest safety breach to the Occupational Health and Safety Authority and asked them to comment.

Spotted a health and safety danger? Let the Occupational Health and Safety Authority know by calling 2124 7677 (9949 6786 outside of office hours) or by emailing ohsa@gov.mt

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