Worker Killed in Crushing Injury at McGill Septic Tank Company

Mahoning County Coroner’s Office reported the death of Jennifer Plant, a 37-year-old worker who sustained a crushing injury at McGill Septic Tank Company in Kinsman, Ohio.

The incident occurred on April 26, before 12:45 p.m., while Plant unloaded a septic tank. Emergency responders transported her to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, where she passed away.

According to Trumbull County Sheriff Paul Monroe and the Deputy Director of Public Affairs of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Rhonda Burke, the victim’s injuries were caused by becoming trapped between a semi-trailer and a forklift.

An autopsy and parallel investigation by OSHA, Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mahoning County Coroner’s Office are underway.

Meanwhile, McGill Septic Tank Company has not yet provided any statement about the accident.

Safety violations at McGill Septic Tank Company trace back to 2013

In 2013, the septic tank company paid $2,420 in penalties when they faced two serious and non-serious violations.

Specifically, the infractions include concerns related to electric strain on cords, floor debris, neglecting regular inspections of energy control protocols, and noncompliance in certifying powered industrial vehicle operators every three years.

More than a decade later, OSHA reopened inspections in the company’s workplace prompted by Plant’s death.

In a report from 21-WFMJ, Burke shared that OSHA has a six-month window to conclude its probe, issue citations, and suggest financial penalties for any workplace violations discovered. They will mainly check on adherence to workplace safety and health regulations.

About crushing injuries in the workplace

It is not uncommon for crushing injuries and forklift accidents to occur in industries involving heavy machinery. Moving gears, conveyor belts, and falling objects can all put workers at risk for this type of workplace accident.

Crush injuries are traumatic damage to the body where a body part is caught and compressed between two objects. If an employee unfortunately endures this kind of injury, immediate medical attention is needed to mitigate further complications.

The excessive force or pressure brought about by the crushing poses long-term effects on the body, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Specifically, it can result in impairments or injuries such as:

• Broken bones and paralysis
• Nerve and muscle damage
• Lacerations
• Brain trauma and head injuries
• Death

Some who may have suffered a more severe crushing injury can experience medical conditions such as kidney or organ failure, amputations, hypotension, and psychological issues.

Furthermore, the duration of recovery from a crush injury depends on how quickly one deals with the issue and the nature of the treatment received. Crush injury survivors commonly receive intravenous (IV) fluids to mitigate the risk of cardiac complications and shield other bodily regions from potential harm.

Workplace negligence for safety standards or training exposes employees to even more possible harm. For instance, failure to maintain machinery increases the likelihood of forklift accidents and vehicle crashes on duty. Here, not only does the victim suffer from physical pain, but it may also take a toll on them financially.

How a crush injury lawyer supports victims

Injuries from a crushing accident may be expensive, and one should not have to pay for the medical bills if workplace negligence has caused the injuries.

Construction or warehouse workers who have sustained crushing injuries on the job or the families of employees killed in such accidents could be eligible for compensation from their company. In this complex process, a crush injury lawyer can help you resolve your claims.

A crush injury lawyer generally manages every aspect of your claim while striving to secure rightful compensation and shield you from insurance companies trying to reduce the amount of money you will receive.

In particular, these legal experts can help you claim:

• Emotional trauma compensation
• Reimbursements for therapies and medical bills
• Compensation for lost income and financial uncertainties

Workers’ compensation lawyer for crushing injuries and deaths

Pursuing workers’ compensation claims can be challenging. You will need an experienced crush injury lawyer to maximize your chances of getting the compensation you deserve, all while advocating for your best interests in every step of the process.

At Pond Lehocky Giordano, expert legal team works tirelessly to help crushing accident victims like Plant and her family receive the compensation they deserve. We will guide you in attaining your desired settlement results. Contact us and let us help you navigate your case with confidence.

For a free, no-obligation consultation, call 1-800-568-7500 or contact us online today.