Working in the recycling industry can be hazardous, as workers are often unprepared for what may be among the items to be recycled. The process typically requires multiple steps to be carried out in confined spaces, and the risks of exposure to explosions, fire and hazardous chemicals are ever present. A 20-year old worker recently lost his life in a work accident at a Missouri recycling plant, bringing the number of Missouri worker fatalities for 2015 to nine.
Two workers on the early morning shift at a metal recycling plant were sorting through aluminum shell casings for scheduled recycling. They reportedly came across an unusual item and examined it, and they were apparently unaware that it was an explosive device. The device exploded and caused the death of one worker, while the other man, age 23, suffered non-life threatening injuries. He was reported to be in a stable condition in the hospital.
Several agencies responded to the emergency, including the U.S. Department of Defense, the Missouri Fire Marshal’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and whether safety regulations were violated. It will also work on ways to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Losing a loved one in a work accident in Missouri is naturally a devastating experience for surviving family members. Not only will they have to cope with the loss of their loved one, but the financial ramifications may be crippling. Some level of financial relief is obtainable by pursuing compensation from workers’ compensation insurance death benefits. Compensation will cover end-of-life expenses and a financial package based on the average earnings of the deceased worker.
Source: news-leader.com, ““Explosive device” kills one at Neosho recycling center“, Amos Bridges, June 15, 2015