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OSHA involved after man falls from roof and dies

Working in construction and home improvement can be a risky undertaking. In spite on the precautions that one may take to avoid hazardous conditions — as most Missouri workers know — not every accident can be anticipated or prevented. When a serious workplace accident occurs, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, frequently conducts an investigation as a means of preventing further injuries in the future.

Recently, OSHA investigators arrived at a worksite in another state where a fatal accident had occurred. According to the initial reports, a man was employed with a company that had been contracted by a building owner to replace or repair the structure’s roof. The workers had purportedly been on-site for a few weeks with no reported incidents. However, one of the workers apparently fell an estimated 35 feet from the structure to the ground.

A co-worker found the man lying on the ground in the early afternoon. After trying to apply first aid, the employee summoned emergency responders. The man was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

OSHA has only begun its investigation into this fatal accident, but it stated that there does not appear there were any safety structures in place in order to prevent falls. It is unknown whether this tragic accident will result in the company facing any citations or fines in regard to this fatality. Missouri workers who have suffered a work injury do have access to the workers’ compensation benefits program in order to seek monetary assistance with medical bills and lost income while recovering. When a fatal accident occurs, as here, the victim’s surviving family can apply for survivor’s benefits. A workers’ compensation attorney can help the family seek financial relief through all applicable outlets.

Source: Chicago Sun-Times, “OSHA investigating roofer’s fatal fall from building in Ashburn“, Luke Wilusz, Sept. 7, 2017