A recent workplace accident at the Rumpke Recycling Center in Dayton killed a woman. The victim was sweeping the floor of the recycling center on E. Monument Avenue when heavy bales of paper fell onto her.

Few details have emerged about the horrific accident, but the federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) is investigating. While Rumpke Recycling has not yet been charged with any violations or wrongdoing, OSHA typically finds multiple safety violations when investigating a workplace fatality; fines and citations are likely to be issued once the investigation is complete.

It is hard to imagine that the victim's death was unavoidable. In virtually every serious workplace accident, there are substantial safety violations. Common causes of industrial injuries and deaths include:

  • Unsafe or poorly maintained equipment
  • Improper training or supervision
  • Failing to implement a safety program
  • Cluttered work environments
  • Failing to provide or wear protective equipment

When a family suddenly loses a loved one in a workplace accident, they can seek workers' compensation death benefits. Survivors may also have the opportunity to bring a third-party lawsuit and wrongful death claim, but it depends on the circumstances of each case.

If you have lost a loved one in an industrial accident, contact an experienced Dayton workers' compensation attorney. A skilled lawyer will help your explore all your legal options, both inside and outside of the workers' comp system.

Source: wdtn.com, "Man says his mother was crushed to death," Jill Drury, Dec. 21, 2011