OSHA Probes Death of Contractor Trapped in Storm Sewer
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating after two contractors became trapped in a storm sewer during July 28 storms in Downers Grove, Illinois; one was rescued, but the other died.
- The agency has up to six months to complete its investigation into whether the company followed required safety procedures and protocols.
- Howie Eberts, vice president of expert witnesses at SCR Safety Solutions, said the OSHA’s confined space standard for construction likely applies, which requires an attendant, controlled entry procedures, and a developed rescue plan before anyone enters the space.
- Eberts said next steps in the investigation will likely include interviews with witnesses and on-site managers.
State Launches Bilingual Workplace Safety Training Platform
- Ahead of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s annual Safe + Sound Week, running August 10-16, the Delaware Safety Council announced a new bilingual online workplace safety training platform offering English and Spanish courses accessible anytime from a computer, tablet or mobile device.
- Nicole DiMondi, the council’s board chair and an environmental, health and safety manager at DuPont’s Facilities Services & Real Estate division, said consistent training, employee engagement, and leadership commitment are key to building a strong safety culture, and the bilingual platform helps employers meet compliance goals.
- The platform currently covers workplace safety and compliance, with plans to expand into construction safety, leadership development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, equipment operation, supervisory skills, human resources and professional development. Many courses offer continuing education credits.
- The platform is designed to serve employers of all sizes, including small businesses, nonprofits, manufacturers, contractors, healthcare organizations, school systems, and government agencies.