Construction companies in Colorado and across the country typically consider the safety of employees to be of the utmost importance. There are numerous laws and regulations in place to reduce the chances of a dangerous construction accident, many of which involve safety gear and procedures. Unfortunately, protecting an employee from other potential risks, such as defective or faulty equipment, could be significantly more challenging.
A recent accident took place at a construction site in another state, when a valve suddenly ruptured and hit a man in the chest. The man was apparently performing work for a drilling company when the 2-inch hose struck him. He was subsequently thrown from a platform and reportedly rendered unconscious. Medical responders were called to the scene, but the man unfortunately died shortly after the incident.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has initiated an investigation into the incident, including an investigation into two separate companies at the job site. One of the companies has reportedly been investigated for two previous construction accidents. It is unclear if the valve was defective, or if there was another reason it may have ruptured.
When forced to suffer the loss of a loved one due to a fatal construction accident, surviving family members usually seek financial relief through the workers’ compensation insurance system. When facing such a stressful situation, families in Colorado will often retain the services of an experienced attorney for assistance in the process. An attorney can provide advice on all available outlets for compensation and assist in pursuing the full amount to which a client is entitled to receive.
Source: NBC San Diego, “Construction Worker Dies Near San Ysidro Port of Entry“, Jaspreet Kaur, May 31, 2017