Two workers on the Queensferry Crossing have been suspended after climbing 350ft down the soaring central tower from a broken lift as storm Abigail tightened its grip.
The contractor, FCBC ,is leading an investigation into the shocking incident on the £1.4 billion project where the duo clambered down a rail connecting the lift to the tower.
The incident happened on Thursday afternoon, as Scotland was preparing to batten down the hatches against stormy weather.
A spokesman for Transport Scotland explained staff were working in safe conditions at the top of the central tower but as wind speeds picked up they elected to descend in the Alimak, a lift which can operate in wind speeds up to 44mph, rather than the safer option of taking the tower’s internal staircase.
But then it stopped, 500 ft above sea level, as winds were strong enough to affect traffic on the neighbouring Forth Road Bridge.
It is believed the men who have now been suspended climbed hundreds of feet down the steel which attaches the hoist to the tower while others still inside were later brought to safety.
The spokesman added: “Safety procedures are in place to rescue employees from the Alimak in all conditions.
“These were immediately instigated.
“The rescue team successfully carried out the practised rescue drill, taking the necessary actions to free the controlled descent mechanism, which allowed those on board to return down the tower safely.”
He added: “The safety team are to be commended for their work.”
He stressed the Alimak’s operational and safety record had been exemplary while work was progressing on the bridge, due to open in little over a year.
And he said at no stage during the incident were the personnel inside the hoist in any danger.
Harry Frew, the Scottish regional secretary of UCATT, the union for construction industry workers, said it was trying to establish the facts around the incident in the Forth.
“It was clearly extremely serious and our first response is to be relieved that no-one appears to have suffered any serious physical injury.”
He said UCATT prioritised health and safety campaigns and the union was “totally committed” to ensuring all construction workers were protected and safe systems of work were in place.
“We intend to meet with management at the crossing as soon as possible to build a clear picture of what has happened and we will resolutely support any of our members that have been affected by this incident,” he added.