Two window washers were working on a skyscraper in New York City when the scaffolding they were on broke free. The scaffolding was buffeted by strong winds, causing it to crash into the side of the building and shatter multiple panes of glass.
The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) deputy chief Michael Trahan reported that the incident occurred around 9:45 a.m. on Friday at 25 Columbus Circle. Crews were called in to rescue the workers who were trapped on the scaffolding.
“When units pulled up, the scaffolding was swinging around, smashing into the building,” Trahan said. “There was glass all over the street.”
Upon reaching the 78th floor, emergency units found glass scattered everywhere as a window had been blown out due to the impact of the scaffolding.
FDNY members rescued two people trapped. (X / @FDNY )
“It was extremely dangerous for the occupants of the scaffolding,” he said. “It was extremely dangerous for members of the FDNY as well. Our members were operating essentially on the ledge of a 78-story building.”
EMS crews treated the two workers after bringing them to safety, then transported them to NewYork-Presbyterian / Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Trahan said both workers were in stable condition.
