Philadelphia Inspector General to probe city’s conduct in fatal building collapse

Philadelphia’s Inspector General will investigate government’s role in this week’s fatal building collapse.

Mayor Michael Nutter says he wants Inspector General Amy Kurland to review how city officials did their jobs in respect to the Market Street demolition accident that killed six people.

“I believe in these instances government must try to find out what happened why and how did it happen?  What human factors, errors or judgments played a role, determine responsibility hold those responsible accountable fix what needs to be fixed or made better and then do what’s best to insure the safety of all of our citizens and our visitors,” said Nutter.

In the wake of reports that a heavy equipment operator on the site tested positive for drugs, Nutter is looking into testing demolition workers.

“We’re also considering a code requirement for background checks and for contractors to provide random drug screening for heavy equipment operators as part of the site safety inspection.”

Those changes would require approval by City Council.