Incident Details
A ground handler working on a parked Boeing 727 attempted to close the cargo door in preparation for departure. As she released the support strut, the door unexpectedly fell downward, causing the strut to penetrate her hand.
Maintenance History
Approximately three weeks before the incident, the cargo door had been reported as "heavy to open." The corrective action taken at that time involved re-securing the forward counterbalance hinge. About one month after the incident, the door was again reported as "heavy when opening," and maintenance personnel adjusted the cable tension on the forward balance mechanism.
No further details regarding the aircraft's identification, the handler's condition, or the circumstances surrounding the event have been disclosed.