The crane arm fell while being raised for the first time since receiving modifications for the next construction phase.

It was only a metre from the ground and a full exclusion zone underneath was in place while being raised.

Perkins Builders health and safety advisor Darren Sanders said no was ever in harm’s way.

“There was absolutely no risk to any workers,” he said.

Perkins Builders South West general manager Clinton Wood said a replacement could be sourced within a week.

“We will work through the weekend to remove the crane because it will go back (to Perth) for rectification and assessment,” he said.

“Hopefully by next week we will have an alternative option.”

The arm had been modified by its Perth suppliers to extend higher to allow construction of the bell tower and spire.

The last time a crane fell in Bunbury was behind the Cathedral when the 2005 tornado – which caused the old Cathedral’s destruction - blew one from a construction site into the ABC radio studios.