The fast pace of progress and development in the industrial sector of California and other states brings about additional hazards that must be contemplated and included in the safety training of employees. When a company installs robotic equipment, it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure workers are aware of the potential hazards and how to avoid industrial accidents. A woman in another state recently lost her life in a work accident that involved a piece of robotic equipment.
The accident report states that officers of the Department of Public Safety were called to a company that produces automotive parts such as trailer hitches and bumpers, and also does chrome plating and other operations. The report indicates that a 57-year-old woman, who had been in the company’s employ for more than 10 years, became trapped by a piece of robotic machinery. When emergency workers arrived at the scene, colleagues of the worker had already freed her.
Sadly, the woman did not survive the incident. An accident investigation by the police, in collaboration with OSHA, is reportedly underway. Investigators will determine whether this fatality was the result of an unsafe working environment.
California families who have to cope with the loss of loved ones who died in industrial accidents are commonly entitled to pursue compensation for end-of-life expenses and some level of lost wages. Claims for workers’ compensation death benefits may be filed regardless of who caused the fatal work accident. As part of death benefits payable to the victim’s covered dependents, the workers’ compensation benefits typically include a financial package based on the deceased worker’s last salary.
Source: mlive.com, “Police identify woman killed in Ionia industrial accident“, Angie Jackson, July 8, 2015
