Investigator: Proper Safety Steps Could Have Prevented Building Collapse
By Mark Abrams
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - An independent investigator of structure collapses alleges the owner of the building and the contractor doing the work at the 22nd and Market Street site failed to take the appropriate measures which could have prevented Wednesday's disaster (see related story).
John Hare is a Turnersville, N.J. architect and engineer who once owned his own construction company. He now investigates structural collapses and foundational failures in the region.
Hare says it's evident the demolition company hired by the owner failed in carrying out its basic responsibility.
"Protect the properties next door. The primary obligation is protection of life and limb. They should have done something to brace this building to prevent it from coming down on top of the thrift store."
Hare says it's the obligation of the owner to hire a structural engineer along with the demolition company to ensure lives and neighboring properties aren't endangered.