Three Workers Killed, One Injured After Glass Crate Collapses in Harare Warehouse Accident
- Chipo Basira
- 23 Apr, 2026
Three Workers Killed, One Injured After Glass Crate Collapses in Harare Warehouse Accident
Three men were killed and one injured on Wednesday morning when a three-tonne crate of glass panels collapsed on them during offloading at a company in Workington, Harare.
The accident happened around 12 noon as eight workers were unloading a consignment from a truck along Coventry Road. One of the heavy crates slipped and crushed three employees on the spot.
Survivor Tanaka Chagonda said the incident happened without warning. “We were offloading a crate of glass panels from the truck when one of the crates slipped and crushed three of our colleagues. It was very frightening,” he said.
Another worker, Phineas Hlanganisa, described the scene as chaotic. “One moment we were working, and the next we heard screams. It was a terrible scene.
The crate fell on them, and they died in a very painful way. This is our job, but it should not end like this,” he said.
Aleck Muzozo, who escaped with minor injuries, said one of the deceased was his brother. “I was working exactly where the three men died, but I managed to duck and the crate only grazed my face. I thank God I survived, but I am not okay,” he said.
Crane operator Question Muringwa said a possible communication lapse caused the accident. “I think there was a miscommunication. A safety belt was not secured where it should have been.
By the time I heard the screams and tried to lift the crate, it was already too late,” he said.
The City of Harare Fire Brigade used equipment to lift the crate.
Police secured the area, which was covered in shattered glass.
Of the five surviving workers, one was taken to hospital for treatment. Police said the names of the deceased will be released after their next of kin are notified.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the deaths and said investigations are underway to check if safety procedures were followed.
The incident has renewed concerns about workplace safety in industries handling heavy materials. The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) requires safety belts, proper rigging, and clear communication during crane operations.
Workington is an industrial area in Harare with warehouses and manufacturing companies.
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