In Remeberance of a Man I Never Knew...

The November 2016 issue of INTERFACE published by The Journal of RCI, Inc had an article on page 47 of Mr. Bruno Travalja shown in the photograph above. I did not know Mr. Travalja but was emotionally impacted by the short article.

Bruno Travalja (52), a New Jersey Architect fell to his death on September 15th of this year performing a roof survey from the 47th floor of a high-rise building. As the article states, Bruno was taking a measurement at the ledge, which only had an 18" parapet. It is not clear but reportedly as he stood up from the ledge, he got dizzy and fell over the edge. He was wearing his safety harness but did not have himself tied off at the time.

With sadness I can state with confidence this tragedy could have been very different and have a happier ending if he was tied-back to a dedicated roof anchor. I do not know if there were any roof anchors near the location Mr. Travalja was surveying, but it is critical every building owner realize that placement of these anchors is so critical in the functioning and maintenance of buildings.

I have been guilty of making a quick decision to do one last look, or take one last photograph and cognizantly decide not to tie-off as it would only be for a very short time. In honor of Mr. Bruno Travalja's life he will be remembered and serve as a reminder for me to make sure I am tied off and safe to return to my family, friends and co-workers...

RIP Bruno Travalja!