Many workers risk their lives in coal mines across Illinois each day. A work-related accident can happen in the blink of an eye, and compliance with safety standards is essential. Occupational Safety and Health Administration authorities note that all workplace injuries are preventable by following prescribed rules and guidelines.
OSHA investigators are looking into a coal mine accident that occurred in a neighboring state on a recent Thursday morning. Under the circumstances yet to be determined, a 29-year-old man became trapped in an auger at a charcoal plant. Reportedly, first responders rushed to the mine after the fire department received an emergency call at about 5 a.m. They arrived to find the worker trapped up to his waist, and a complicated rescue process followed.
According to the fire chief, this was a technical rescue that required each piece of the auger to be disassembled to remove the critically injured worker without causing further harm. The rescue took about three hours, after which the man was airlifted to the hospital. His condition was reported to be life-threatening.
The Illinois workers’ compensation insurance program has the backs of work-related accident victims. An attorney with experience in this field of the law can help with the benefits claims process and also look to preserve any common law right of the worker. Compensation typically covers medical expenses and lost wages for those who suffered temporary disabilities. However, workers whose injuries caused permanent disabilities may be eligible for additional benefits. Injured workers can claim benefits regardless of the outcome of an OSHA investigation because the workers’ compensation system is a no-fault program.
