Man Dies in Workplace Accident at Football Stadium

OSHA | October 16, 2013

Football fans in Chicago and other parts of the country enjoy watching their favorite teams play at stadiums. Sometimes new stadiums are built to accommodate more fans and offer better features to provide more comfort and enjoyment. However, construction sites can be dangerous. There are so many factors to consider, including heights, machinery and tools. One man was recently crushed by rebar falling from a truck at the site of a new stadium for the San Francisco 49ers.

The workplace accident occurred on the morning of Oct.7. in Santa Clara, California. A delivery truck driver was unloading a bundle of rebar from his truck when it crushed him. He was taken to a local hospital to be treated for his injuries, but he later died. This was the second workplace accident to occur at the construction site. The 60-year-old man was a subcontractor employed by Gerdau Ameristeel’s Napa Reinforcing Steel.

An investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is underway to determine what could have been done to prevent the fatal accident. While the investigation could take several months, the construction site has been considered safe for employees to work. It closed down for a week following the accident.

With the new stadium slated to be completed in July, crews have been working feverishly to meet deadlines. The work plan aims to reduce delays while maximizing efficiency. Although it’s good to work efficiently, it’s even more important to keep safety in mind. When workers are rushed, accidents are more likely to occur.

The investigation will likely determine liability. If the construction company or other party is found liable, the family may be able to sue for damages. Those damages may include medical bills, funeral expenses and lost wages, as well as others. If you have been injured in a workplace accident, contact our Chicago workers’ comp lawyers today for a free case evaluation.

Source: 
WMCTV, “2nd worker dies at 49ers stadium construction site” No author given, Oct. 14, 2013