Authorities in Illinois reported that a man in his 50s fell approximately 20 feet at the work site of the new Jacksonville water plant. He was subcontracting at the $30 million construction project when he suffered a serious injury. Apparently, the incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. on a recent Tuesday.
He was rushed to a hospital in Springfield from where it was reported that he required surgery that was scheduled to be done soon. Officials revealed no information about the workplace accident, except that they suspect the worker fell from a ladder upon his exit from the pit. The report indicated that he was working on pipe installations on the day of the accident.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said an investigation would be launched to determine the cause of the subcontractor’s fall. Although company officials claimed it was an accident that did not involve any failure or malfunction of equipment, OSHA investigators will examine the general compliance with safety regulations on the work site. Ladder safety will be one of the aspects investigators will inspect.
Following a serious injury that results in hospitalization, surgery and possible rehabilitation, physio therapy, and more, a worker will likely be anxious about the mounting medical bills and his or her inability to return to work for some time. Financial obligations and the failure to meet them while temporary disabled can cause additional stress. Fortunately, insurance benefits that will cover medical expenses and lost wages are available from the Illinois workers’ compensation program, and attorneys who are experienced in this field are available to navigate benefits claims.
Source: myjournalcourier.com, “OSHA to review fall at water plant“, Nick Draper, July 20, 2017
