Working at a metal scrapping facility involves tasks that can be strenuous and expose workers to different kinds of hazards. However, many Illinois workers have to face these hazards in order to support themselves and their families’ needs. Unfortunately, a single instance of a work-related accident can end in serious, even fatal injuries.
An industrial accident killed a 39-year-old man at the Behr Iron and Metal facility, which is about two hours northwest of Chicago, Illinois. The accident was reported around 7 p.m., and the worker died at the scene around 8 p.m. Crime scene investigators were dispatched to the scene to assist with the investigation. According to an officer, an autopsy revealed the employee died due to traumatic asphyxia.
Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) detectives have opened an investigation to determine whether the facility complied with federal and state safety standards. This kind of investigation can take up to six months to complete. An inspection during the spring of 2011, found that the facility had several safety violations. According to OSHA records, those issues were fixed in July 2011.
A workplace accident can happen anytime and result in pain and suffering. Besides the emotional toll, an on-the-job injury or fatality can have costly repercussions due to medical bills, missed workdays, funeral expenses and other costs. Unsafe working environment, dangerous tools and equipment, as well as inadequate safety training can compromise the well-being of employees and result in Chicago work-related deaths.
Employers are required to provide a risk-free workplace, safety equipment and safety trainings to it employees. Any violation of these safety protocols are grounds for negligence. Fortunately, a victim or the victim’s family may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim or a wrongful death lawsuit in the event that a worker dies while on the job.
Source: Rockford Register Star, “Man killed in South Beloit industrial accident identified,” Mar. 11, 2014