The loss of a family member is a devastating experience that typically causes a number of hardships. In cases where the family breadwinner loses his or her life, the surviving family will face a future without that residual income. While nothing can undo the loss, the California workers’ compensation insurance fund aims to provide financial aid in the form of survivor benefits to the dependents of the victim of an accident on the job.
Two families in another state are facing a future without their loved one after a tragic accident at a wastewater treatment plant. It was reported that the two workers were repairing equipment in a pit that holds the pumps between two clarifying tanks. One worker apparently attempted to close the valve when they noticed a severe leak. The water filled the pit at a high rate of speed, and the worker could not escape. The second worker went in to assist the first worker, but failed, and both workers died at the scene.
In their quest to ensure the proper functioning of the facility, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is investigating the accident while also monitoring operations at the wastewater treatment plant in El Paso. TCEQ says it’s only concern is the environmental impact, and the plant is operating under reduced capacity until the faulty equipment is repaired. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the two fatalities and the company’s compliance with safety regulations.
California families who are facing a future without the love, support and guidance of a loved one who was killed in an accident on the job may find comfort knowing that help is available. By filing a claim for death benefits with the workers’ compensation insurance fund, they may receive compensation to help them in times of greatest need. The benefits usually provide compensation to widowers, widows and children, along with other dependents to support them during this time of uncertainty and grief.
Source: kvia.com, “2 who died at Lower Valley El Paso wastewater treatment plant were making repairs when leak occurred“, Oct. 22, 2014
