Workplace accident leads to fatality

There are a variety of different accidents that can happen in Massachusetts workplaces. For those who work with heavy machinery, there may be additional risks. Unfortunately, one out-of-state family is coping with the loss of their family member in a recent fatal workplace accident.

According to reports, paramedics received a call regarding an accident just after 8:30 a.m. on a day in early January. Unfortunately, when they arrived they discovered that the 60-year-old man had passed away as a result of the injuries he suffered in the accident.  The man was reportedly lubricating the gears of an industrial elevator when he became entangled in the machinery.

The man’s identity has not been released at this time. However, a representative for Tonawanda Coke says he worked for the company for 10 years before the accident. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration plans to investigate the incident and issue a report within six months. The company was most recently fined by OSHA in 2014 as a result of an explosion that injured three workers.

The family of the deceased man is likely still reeling from the news of the workplace accident. Many families in Massachusetts have found that an unexpected death such as this creates financial issues due to funeral expenses and loss of wages. Because employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage, the victim’s surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for some of the expenses. A professional with experience regarding the compensation process can help the family better understand the benefits and help seek fair treatment.

Source: syracuse.com, “Western NY factory worker dies in industrial elevator accident; feds investigate“, Ben Axelson, Jan. 7, 2016