Extensive construction projects in Missouri and elsewhere that involve thousands of workers require careful planning and extensive hazard assessment. Approximately 1,200 workers who are part of the construction crew that is involved in building the U.S. Bank Stadium in another state were traumatized recently when a construction worker lost his life, and another one suffered serious injuries. The two workers were reportedly employed by a contractor who is in charge of the roofing in this project that exceeds $1 billion.
The accident was still under investigation at the time of the media report, and not many details were available. For yet unknown reasons, the worker fell off the edge of the roof and landed in a snow gutter. He was rushed to a hospital, but his death was pronounced upon admittance. A second worker suffered injuries on the roof, and it is yet to be determined what the two men were working on at the time of the accident.
Construction operations were put on hold while the investigation is underway. As part of the inquiry, officials will determine which safety gear was required by the nature of the activities of the two workers. Furthermore, investigators will check whether the deceased worker was wearing fall protection and whether his lanyard was secured. Violations of safety regulations may result in severe punishment for the employer and the construction management.
The surviving dependents of the deceased construction worker will likely face many stumbling blocks at this difficult time. In addition to high funeral and burial costs, they may struggle to maintain financial obligations without his regular income. The medical expenses of the injured worker may bring about similar financial problems that may be worsened by the lack of wages if he is unable to return to work soon. Fortunately, financial relief is available through the workers’ compensation system in Missouri, and other states, to cover end-of-life costs, medical expenses and lost wages.
Source: ABC News, “Construction Worker Plunges to Death at Vikings Stadium Site”, Steve Karnowski, Aug. 26, 2015