Updated: Jul 12, 2016 12:45 PM
PHARR, TEXAS – A construction worker who fell into a manhole is listed in serious condition at McAllen Medical Center. The accident happened in Pharr near Highway 281/Cage Boulevard and Military Highway.
CHANNEL 5 NEWS learned other workers saw the man fall at least 15 feet. Pharr Fire Chief Leonard Perez said the worker was exposed to fumes.
“Sewer gases let off, about three different ones. One of them is hydrogen sulfide,” Perez said.
OSHA is investigating the incident. The contracted employee was exposed to carbon monoxide, methane and hydrogen sulfide.
Pharr city officials said he wasn't wearing the proper equipment. “The firefighters always wear what we call a self-contained breathing apparatus, which is compressed air. It’s not oxygen, it’s just compressed air in our tanks for hazardous environments,” Perez said.
The worker was unconscious when a firefighter removed him from the manhole. The firefighter wore protective gear during the rescue.
CHANNEL 5 NEWS asked who is responsible for giving workers protective gear.
“If you’re a subcontractor, then your subcontractor is required to follow the guidelines accordingly,” Perez said
According to the fire chief, the man works with a subcontractor and is not a city employee. Pharr city engineer said the worker was employed with Garco Industries, also in Pharr.
Garco's business is listed as Grading Contractors, Excavation Contractors, Utility Contractors. They will be liable if they did not provide the worker with the appropriate protective equipment and training.
OSHA, Pharr police and the fire marshal’s office are all looking into what happened. Pharr city officials released the following statement:
City of Pharr Fire Rescue professionals responded this morning to a call regarding a situation involving an employee of a contractor doing work on behalf of the City of Pharr.
The contract-employee entered a manhole located at the 600 block of East Military Highway without proper equipment and was overcome by fumes. He was discovered unconscious by co-workers; who called 911, prompting a response by Fire Rescue professionals who removed the victim from the manhole. First-aid was performed on the scene by Med-Care paramedics before transporting the unidentified individual to McAllen Medical Center where he is listed in serious condition.
The City of Pharr wishes for a speedy recovery.