Wisconsin Experiences Four Occupational Deaths in October; One in Construction

October saw a high number of occupation-related deaths in Wisconsin. Even one death is too many, but four is beyond disturbing. Employers and employees are urged to use extreme care and safety diligence in all work activities.  This begins by making safety part of your culture.

The information below (from OSHA) shares preliminary details about the most recent occupational fatalities reported to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the State of Wisconsin. The description reflects information provided to OSHA at the initial report of the incident and is not the result of the official OSHA investigation. Three of the four fatalities were general industry related and one was construction (electrical contractor).

Preliminary Summary of Incident One: On October 16, 2017, at approximately 12:00 p.m., a 42 year old employee was scrapping slag from a piece of steel suspended by a crane with a magnet. The steel piece disengaged from the magnet which fell on the employee.

Preliminary Summary of Incident Two: On October 16, 2017, at approximately 12:45 p.m., a 60 year old employee was crushed between two staged refrigeration trailers after one of the trailers was struck by a tractor trailer that had rolled away from a loading dock area.

Preliminary Summary of Incident Three: On October 22, 2017 at approximately 5:00 p.m., a 60 year old employee was opening a rolling gate for access into the company yard. The employee was struck by a box truck that had rolled forward.

Preliminary Summary of Incident Four: On October 25, 2017, a 57 year old employee of an electrical contractor fell to the concrete floor below.

Employees are precious. Our mutual goal must be that every employee goes home at the end of their shift every day by making your culture focused around safety! If you need help or assistance in ensuring your workplace is safe, ABC of WI is here to help with four safety managers. Just give us a call at 608-244-5883. Be safe.

By Don Moen