Massachusetts Workers Compensation Lawyers Blog
Utility workers face some of the most dangerous working conditions, with falls, electrocution, and other deadly accidents among the daily risks. In a tragic local case, two Bourne utility workers were killed after the boom of a crane supporting them fell to the ground. OSHA is investigating the accident to determine whether safety mechanisms were in place and whether the workers and line company were in compliance with federal regulations. In the event that violations are found, the employer company could face OSHA fines.
According to the Boston Globe, the two workers were only 34-years-old when they lost their lives. They were employed by MassBay Electrical Corp. The electrical company had been contracted to do work on lines for NStar according to a spokesperson for the hiring company. The details of the accident are still unclear as the case is being thoroughly investigated by private and public agencies.
Witnesses reported that the crane collapsed and the two fell from the bucket while working on high tension wires. Our Boston workers’ compensation attorneys are experienced with complex cases involving workplace accidents. We are committed to helping workers and their loved ones recover just compensation after a workplace injury or fatality. In addition to providing strategic advocacy to today’s workforce, we are also dedicated to keeping workers safe and preventing future accidents.
The crane collapse occurred at Cape Cod Aggregates, a stone, sand and gravel company. Initial reports indicated that state police had already initiated an investigation and found no criminal activity. In this case, private and public investigators will be seeking to uncover evidence of safety violations or failures. Workers on utility lines must follow certain safety protocols to prevent falls and electrocution. Equipment must also be tested to make sure that it is safe for use. State police were investigating for criminal or suspicious activity, however released in a later statement that the deaths were caused by an accident.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is further looking to determine if there were any violations of workplace safety standards. Any violation could result in fines and other penalties for employing companies. The accident occurred the same month that OSHA has released new rules for electrical line workers to prevent falls and electrocution. The new rules establish protocols and directives to ensure safety when on lifts, protective gear, and other measures that will go into effect in April of 2015. Once safety measures go into effect, OSHA and other industry leaders hope that measures and compliance tactics will prevent future accidents and injuries.
This is a tragic workplace accident that took the lives of two young workers. According to the father of one of the victims, he loved his line work and being a utility worker. When a worker loses his life while in the course of performing work related duties, the family may be entitled to significant benefits. Workers’ compensation claims can cover medical expenses, as well as lost wages resulting from the accident or injury. In addition to workers’ compensation claims, injured workers and their families may also be able to bring third-part claims against negligent individuals or entities.
Call Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers for a free and confidential appointment — (617) 777-7777.
More Blog Entries:
Addressing Nail Gun Safety to Protect Boston Workers, January 22, 2014.
OSHA Moves Forward with Power Line Standard Update, January 25, 2014.