Man Killed in Tree Chipping Accident
Many jobs involve running machinery. While these machines are necessary to get work done efficiently, they need to be operated safely.
Unfortunately, a man was killed in a workplace accident at a cemetery in New Jersey. The 22-year-old man died from injuries sustained during a tree-chipping equipment accident in Flemington Borough on the evening of July 10.
The man was involved in an accident involving the equipment at St. Magdalen Cemetery. The details are unknown, but when police arrived at the accident scene, the man was already dead.
The death has been labeled an accident. No foul play is involved. The county prosecutor’s office is working with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to investigate the case and better understand what caused the accident.
The man, from Flemington, was an employee at the William LaRue Services, The company has no previous OSHA violations. The accident is still under investigation.
Dangers of Tree Chippers
Tree chippers are dangerous due to several factors:
- Powerful blades. Wood chippers have extremely powerful, rapidly rotating blades designed to cut through tough wood. This power can cause severe injury or death if a person comes into contact with the blades.
- Feed mechanism. The feed mechanisms are designed to pull in material quickly. If clothing, gloves, or limbs get caught, they can be pulled into the chipper before the machine can be stopped.
- Flying debris. Wood chippers can produce kickbacks and eject debris at high speeds, which can cause serious injury. Even small pieces of wood can become dangerous projectiles.
- Noise and vibration. The noise and vibration from the machine can cause operators to become disoriented or distracted, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Inadequate training: Operating a wood chipper requires specific training to ensure safe use. Lack of proper training can lead to improper operation and accidents.
- Mechanical failures. Like any machinery, chippers can experience mechanical failures. If safety guards or emergency shutoffs fail, the risk of injury increases.
You can stay safe around tree chippers by doing the following:
- Wear protective gear. Wear close-fitting clothing, a hard hat, or helmet, eye and hearing protection, and gloves. Avoid jewelry and anything that could dangle, and tie back long hair or beards.
- Inspect the chipper. Before each use, inspect the chipper for defects like broken latches, worn hinges, or cracks. Make sure all bolts and screws are tight, and that the hood covers the knives completely.
- Prepare the area. Place the chipper on level ground, and clear the area of debris or other materials that could cause you to trip or slip. Remove any nails or ropes, as branches can snag things.
- Understand the chipper. Read the operating manual and become familiar with the machine.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Workplace accidents can be dangerous or even fatal, as in this case. Operating heavy equipment needs to be done with care.
A Morristown work-related accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can help you deal with the effects of workplace injuries. We understand the stress and challenges involved and will help you get compensation. Fill out the online form or call (973) 455-1567 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
digitalchew.com/2024/07/12/young-cemetery-worker-loses-life-in-dangerous-wood-chipper-accident-in-new-jersey/
