OSHA investigating death of 2 contractors at OxyChem
By KSN TV Published: July 1, 2016, 10:25 am Updated: July 1, 2016, 11:04 am
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WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Wichita office has opened an investigation after two men, ages 45 and 48, were killed Thursday.
The Sperry Brothers Inc. employees were performing electrical maintenance at the Occidental Chemical Corporation facility in Wichita.
Preliminary information indicates the two workers were in an articulating boom basket performing maintenance, approximately 55 feet above ground , when the truck-mounted articulating boom collapsed.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the employees who lost their lives yesterday,” said Judy Freeman, OSHA’s Area Director in Wichita. “Aerial lifts are commonly used in construction and maintenance activities and present various hazards to workers. OSHA will conduct a thorough investigation to see if any violations of OSHA standards contributed to this tragic incident.”
OSHA’s investigation which will include gathering evidence, interviewing employees, and reviewing relevant company records and documents. OSHA may issue citations and penalties if the agency finds violations of OSHA standards or law.
For information on the OSHA inspection process, click here.