In Florence a fourth worker has been recovered after a building under construction collapsed, as rescuers continue to search for a fifth victim
Italian firefighters recovered the lifeless body of a fourth worker early this morning following the collapse of a building under construction in the center of Florence. The search continues for the remaining missing person as two teams of rescuers, aided by dogs and heavy machinery, press on through the night.
“In Florence, a building under construction collapsed. The body of the fourth worker has been recovered. The search continues for the last missing person,” announced the firefighting corps on social media today [Citation: Italian Fire Department].
The rescue operation has not ceased since reports emerged on Friday that a cement support beam failed at the supermarket project, causing part of the structure to fall and bring down the entire facade. Eight workers were initially affected, with several sustaining injuries as debris and scaffolding shifted under the impact of the collapse [Citation: Local authorities].
Eugenio Giani, president of the Tuscany region, proclaimed a day of regional mourning in Florence as the city mourns the victims and supports their families. He stated this morning that the region stands in solidarity with those affected and called for a solemn day of reflection [Citation: Regional government communications].
The regional president visited the hospital to check on the injured workers, three of whom are Romanian and one remains in intensive care. While all are reported to be in stable condition, the workers and their families are deeply affected by the loss of colleagues who were simply doing their jobs.
The unstable conditions at the site have complicated the rescue work. Firefighters, with the help of excavators and search dogs, have maintained a 24 hour operation as they attempt to reach any possible survivors and secure the site against further collapses. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the country and raised questions about safety on building sites.
Florence prosecutors have opened an investigation into the incident, focusing on possible negligent collapse and involuntary homicide. The construction site has been placed under judicial seizure and testimony has been taken from workers involved in the project [Citation: Florence Prosecutor’s Office].
Syndicate representatives reported that the deceased workers were employed by a contracting firm, and they called for a two hour regional strike to raise awareness about workplace safety. The unions argue that systemic issues in subcontracting and bidding practices contribute to such disasters [Citation: Trade unions statements].
Maurizio Landini, head of the country’s main union, voiced strong criticism of the subcontracting system and low-bid procurement that he says expose workers to greater risk. He referenced data from 2023 showing the total number of workplace deaths and urged the government to address the underlying causes of these tragedies [Citation: CGIL leadership remarks].
In a message of condolence, the prime minister offered thoughts and support for the families and stressed the nation’s commitment to preventing such incidents in the future. The response from leadership reflects a shared resolve to protect workers who head out each day to do their jobs and return home safely [Citation: Government statements].