THE UK's largest construction industry union, UCATT, claims the worker killed in today's tragedy at the Queensferry Crossing was hit by the boom of a crane.

A statement issued by the union this afternoon read: "It is understood that a 60-year-old worker was killed after he was hit by the boom of a crane he was directing. The worker suffered severe blood loss, he was taken off site but could not be resuscitated."

Harry Frew, regional secretary for UCATT Scotland, said: “UCATT sends its sincere condolences to the family of the worker who has suffered this tragic accident. It is impossible to imagine how they must be feeling.”

The fatality is particularly poignant as it occurred today (Thursday) on Workers’ Memorial Day. This is the day when workers across the world come together to remember the dead and vow to fight for the living.

 Mr Frew added: “UCATT will be doing everything it can to find out how and why this accident occurred and to ensure that similar fatalities are prevented in the future.”

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “We are currently working alongside our partner agencies to investigate an incident on the Queensferry Crossing that resulted in a man sustaining fatal injuries.

“The call was received around 12.20pm and, sadly, the man was pronounced dead a short time later.

“Another man on the bridge also sustained minor injuries.

“Enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding this matter are ongoing.”