Some jobs are inherently dangerous. However, many fatal workplace accidents are the result of an unexpected situation. Pittsburgh readers will be sad to hear how an unfortunate incident resulted in the death of a worker.
The accident occurred on Jan. 2 in Bucks County. A man operating an excavator was removing salt from a 100 - foot salt pile when the pile collapsed around his equipment, trapping him. Rescuers attempted to get to the man, but the large pile continued to collapse as the workers tried to get close to the man.
Heavy machinery had to be used to remove the excavator from underneath the salt pile. Unfortunately, the man died from his injuries. The accident is under investigation. According to the fire marshal, the incident looks like a tragic accident, but all aspects of the incident will be investigated in the hope of determining a cause and to prevent it from happening again.
The investigation will examine the excavator, and try to determine why the salt pile collapsed in such a manner. Work records for the deceased worker will be examined as will a history of maintenance of the machinery. Also, anyone who witnessed the accident will be interviewed as will the rescuers.
Once the investigation is concluded, any wrongdoing on the part of anyone involved will be revealed. However, the family of the deceased worker can still seek compensation for the accident. Financial assistance for medical bills, final expenses and lost wages can be pursued. An experienced legal professional can assist anyone who might be considering taking this route, and help determine what rights an injured worker or a surviving family might have.
Source: CBS Philly, "Worker Crushed To Death By 100-Foot Rock Salt Pile In Bucks County" Tim Jimenez, Jan. 02, 2014
"*" indicates required fields
