When people in this country think of dangerous occupations, they often think of those whose jobs require them to face obvious dangers — such as criminals or the elements of nature. However, all occupations hold some degree of risk. For example, tree trimmers must work with dangerous equipment at great heights. Unfortunately, one tree trimmer in California recently lost his life after suffering fatal workplace injuries.
Reports indicate that the accident happened just before 11 a.m. one morning on a day in late July. When emergency responders arrived, they reportedly discovered the 36-year-old victim hanging approximately 45 feet in the air from a safety harness. A chainsaw was hanging nearby.
Rescue workers were able to lower the man to the ground. It was then discovered that he was suffering from a cut from a chainsaw. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The California Division of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently investigating the incident. Typically, OSHA has six months to complete its investigations; if violations are discovered, the company could face fines and/or citations.
While most California employers go to great lengths to protect the safety of their employers, workplace injuries can still occur. Because of the potential financial ramifications of such an accident, employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for employees. These benefits can help with funeral expenses, medical costs and lost wages in the event of an accident and typically extend to certain family members in the event of a workplace fatality.
Source: The Sacramento Bee, “Tree trimmer killed in chainsaw accident was Sacramento man”, Cathy Locke, July 29, 2016
