North Carolina man pinned under machine for 90 minutes

Some jobs may be more dangerous than others, especially those performed outdoors-unpredictable weather conditions and heavy machinery often play a role in workers getting hurt on the job. Employers should try to protect their workers by ensuring that they receive proper safety training and know how to react in emergency situations.

A worker’s quick thinking may have saved the life of a 62-year-old workplace accident victim who was hurt on the job while operating logging equipment in North Carolina.

The victim was clearing trees along the side of the road when the machine he was operating turned over, pinning him underneath. His leg and shoulder were stuck under a 15-ton steer skidder for over an hour.

Another worker called 911 for assistance. Fire crews arrived on the scene and used pneumatic bags to lift the equipment off the man. He was airlifted to the hospital to receive medical attention for his undisclosed injuries.

Occupational safety investigators are looking into the matter in order to determine the cause of the accident. It is an employer’s duty to provide a safe working environment for workers, regardless of their profession and workplace. If they have violated any applicable safety regulations, they may face penalties. An investigation could take up to six months.

If a North Carolina worker is injured on the job, he or she may be able to file a worker’s compensation suit against the employer. The compensation that they may receive can help cover medical costs not only for the physical injuries sustained, but also for the emotional trauma suffered during the workplace accident. This compensation also may go a long way in covering costs while taking time off from work due to the accident.

Source: WRAL, “Worker trimming trees pinned by overturned machinery,” March 6, 2013