Big D Builders, a construction contractor based in Meridian, Idaho, has resumed work on an airport hangar at Boise Airport, almost a year after the tragic collapse of the structure that resulted in the deaths of three workers. The incident occurred on January 31, 2024, when the hangar, owned by Jackson Jet, crumpled during its construction. The fatalities were devastating: Craig Durrant, 59, a co-founder of Big D Builders and the brother of company owner Dennis Durrant; Mario Sontay Tzi, 32; and Mariano Coc Och, 24. The tragedy drew immediate attention, especially as workers had raised concerns about the safety of the structure just a day prior to the collapse.
Following the incident, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducted an investigation into the events leading up to the collapse. In its findings, released in July 2024, OSHA alleged that Big D Builders had violated multiple safety regulations during the erection of the hangar. Specifically, OSHA claimed that the contractor failed to secure critical connecting bolts properly and instead used straps to straighten spans, which was not in line with the required steel erection standards. Moreover, the agency found that workers had not been properly trained on constructing steel spans and that heavy equipment, including cranes, had been allowed to operate in mud and standing water. This created a risk of equipment overturning, further endangering workers.
As a result of these violations, Big D Builders was cited by OSHA for one willful violation and three serious violations, which carried an initial penalty of $198,586. However, the citations remain contested by the company, which means the fine amount could be reduced once the legal process is completed. In addition, OSHA also issued a citation to Inland Crane Inc., the crane contractor involved in the project. Inland Crane received one serious safety violation, with an initial fine of $10,163. However, Inland Crane has disputed the findings, stating that their equipment and employees were not responsible for the collapse.
The tragic event also prompted legal action from the families of the deceased workers, who filed a lawsuit seeking damages from the construction team. The lawsuit alleged that the construction team had “recklessly” rushed the project, contributing to the disaster. The families’ legal action suggests that there may have been negligence or disregard for safety in the project’s hurried construction process.
Despite these serious legal and safety challenges, Big D Builders has resumed construction on the hangar. The company has continued with its work at the Boise Airport, a significant project for Jackson Jet. The resumption of construction raises important questions about the company’s safety practices moving forward and whether any changes have been made to address the concerns that led to the fatal incident.
As construction continues, industry stakeholders will be closely watching how Big D Builders addresses both the legal ramifications and the need to enhance safety protocols to prevent further accidents in the future. The tragic deaths of the three workers serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety in the construction industry and the need for strict adherence to regulations.
