Any kind of job can have its specific dangers or risks, especially if the worker is alone. Many people may assume working in a grocery store is a relatively safe occupational path; however there can still be risks involved. A California man recently suffered a fatal work injury in a grocery store due to an accident with a cardboard baler.
The 43-year-old man was a janitor at the grocery store and was alone at night when something apparently happened. He was found inside of the industrial baler and had been crushed to death. There were no witnesses around when the accident happened; but authorities have said there were no signs of foul play.
The machine at the heart of this tragic accident was taken and will be thoroughly inspected. Authorities report that any conclusive findings about the accident or the possible causes can take months. There was no report as to whether there had been any other issues with this piece of machinery or if proper training and standards of safety were followed.
While the investigation into this fatal work injury may take quite awhile, the family left behind may have to contend with mounting financial burdens as a result of their loved one’s death. California has many refutations and laws in place to protect workers and their families in the event of a fatal or debilitating work injury. The family of this particular victim may receive monetary benefits that could help them deal with the lost wages and other financial burdens they may incur because of this fatal work accident.
Source: wasterecyclingnews.com, “Man crushed to death by trash compactor inside California grocery,” July 15, 2013