OSHA, police investigate fatal workplace accident

Many people in Massachusetts and across the country do not realize the inherent dangers of a construction site. People working with heavy machinery or on scaffolding could easily become involved in a serious workplace accident. One such accident recently occurred out of state. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently investigating.

Reports indicate that emergency personnel were dispatched to a construction site one morning in mid-August. When rescuers arrived, they found two men, both 31 years old, lying on the ground with severe injuries. Although they were transported to the hospital, both later died as a result of the injuries suffered.

Reports indicate that their injuries were caused by a fall from a lift bucket. They were allegedly in the bucket when the lift machine tipped on its side, throwing them to the ground. It is unclear at this time what caused the equipment to tip, but foul play is not suspected. In addition to the investigation conducted by OSHA, local police are also looking into the incident.

Because of the many different dangers employees in Massachusetts face in the workplace, state law requires employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for their workers. These benefits provided by this insurance cover medical bills and lost wages. In the event of a fatal workplace accident, compensation is provided for funeral expenses and typically extends to the worker’s dependent family members. Because dealing with an insurance company is the last thing grieving families want to do, many seek the guidance of an experienced professional to help ensure fair treatment.

Source: wbaltv.com, “Two men killed in an industrial accident“, Bethany Sharpton, Aug. 15, 2015