Most people in Pennsylvania are aware that they face certain risks in their workplace. While they may attempt to follow all regulations recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, not all accidents can be completely avoided. Unfortunately, OSHA is likely set to investigate a recent accident in another state that killed one man and left another hospitalized with work-related injuries.
The incident reportedly happened in early March at Hi - Tech Steel Treating, a steel treating plant. According to reports, a crew was performing maintenance on a furnace. Unfortunately, the furnace is said to have exploded while the maintenance was being performed.
One of the workers passed away as a result of injuries suffered in the explosion; officials were withholding identification of the worker until his family members could be notified. Another man suffered injuries that required treatment at a hospital. Many details regarding the accident, including the reason why maintenance was being performed, what caused the explosion and the extent of the surviving man's injuries, remain unclear. However, OSHA investigates workplace accidents that result in a fatality.
Unfortunately, the time period following a workplace accident can be a time for great adjustment for victims and their families. While the family of the deceased man will struggle with funeral expenses and loss of wages, the man suffering from work-related injuries may have difficulty paying his medical bills and require retraining if his injuries prevent him from returning to work in the same capacity. Fortunately, these victims -- including surviving family members -- likely qualify for workers' compensation insurance benefits. Pennsylvania requires all employers to provide coverage for these benefits for their employees in the event of such an accident. An attorney with experience with the process can help them pursue fair compensation.
Source: U.S. News & World Report, "Furnace Explosion at Saginaw Plant Kills 1, Injures Another", March 7, 2017
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