The unfortunate truth is that the construction industry involves dangerous work, and at times, this can lead to disaster, injury and loss of life. This year, and this fall in particular, saw a number of high-profile accidents, including a partial collapse at the Hard Rock Hotel project in New Orleans; a crane accident on a Google jobsite in Seattle; and a building collapse in Cincinnati. 

The reaction to a tragedy can make a huge difference for a project, especially in the public's perception of the companies involved. A delayed response isn't helpful, especially when an investigation into the cause and impact of the accident is inevitable.

We chose to collect these stories not to ruminate on the tragedy, but to emphasize them as examples of how best to handle a perilous situation. With that in mind, here is a look back at some of the construction calamities from this year, and the fallout that followed.