Automated machinery traps, kills 1 Illinois industrial worker

On Behalf of | Aug 14, 2012 | Industrial Workers' Accidents |

An industrial accident can have many reasons, but one common reason in Illinois is over-automation. Automated machines can often make things easier and can improve the bottom line of the company. Unfortunately, because they are automated, they can also put people in danger and increase the risk of an industrial accident occurring. Furthermore, sometimes there are inadequate safety precautions to help prevent these accidents from occurring in the first place.

Unfortunately, one Illinois man was killed at a Kraft warehouse, as the result of heavy automated machinery. While he was working, an unmanned, automated laser-guided vehicle somehow pinned him onto another piece of equipment. In the man’s job, he was assigned to oversee the vehicles and make sure that they were working properly in the warehouse.

The man was found in the early morning hours when his fellow workers spotted him trapped. A little more than an hour later, he was pronounced dead. Currently, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, as well as the local police department and coroner’s office, are investigating the fatal accident to find out exactly what occurred and to determine what can be done to prevent similar accidents in the future.

For the man’s family, there are probably few words to describe how greatly his loss will be felt by all who loved him. In the meantime, as they grieve, they may receive some comfort in knowing that workers’ compensation death benefits are likely available to help them financially through their difficult days. Though nothing can fully replace the man, the benefits typically cover funeral expenses and other costs as well as lost income as a consequence of the tragedy.

Source: Belleville News Democrat, “Belleville man killed in warehouse accident in Granite City,” Aug. 7, 2012

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