Worker Injured in Fall at Assembly Row in Somerville
Somerville, Massachusetts – In a disturbing incident that unfolded at Assembly Row, a worker was injured in a fall on Thursday afternoon, according to the Somerville Fire Department. The incident took place near the River Bar, where a cherry picker-style truck with police tape around it was spotted by SKY7-HD flying above the scene. The bucket of the truck appeared to be broken, and debris was scattered on the ground.
Eyewitnesses at the River Bar reported that the worker was putting up lights on a metal structure when he suddenly came crashing down. Sergio Re, a bartender at the River Bar, described the harrowing scene, stating, “I was working and I heard a loud noise, and I just saw the crane collapse and I saw the guy hitting the ground.” Re acted swiftly, immediately dialing 911 while rushing over to assist the injured worker. Fortunately, two doctors happened to be in the area at the time and provided immediate medical attention.
Despite the presence of first responders and the prompt arrival of an ambulance, the injured worker was in critical condition. Re recounted, “He was losing a lot of blood, but I don’t know, he wasn’t moving a lot.” The injured worker was swiftly transported to the hospital, while other workers at the site began the arduous task of cleaning up the debris left behind.
The incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks construction workers face daily. Falls from heights are consistently identified as one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries in the construction industry. According to recent data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls accounted for 33.5% of all construction fatalities in 2019. This sobering statistic highlights the importance of stringent safety measures and proper training to prevent such accidents from occurring.
Employers have a crucial role to play in ensuring the safety of their workers. They must provide comprehensive training programs and enforce strict adherence to safety protocols, such as the use of personal protective equipment and the implementation of fall protection systems. Regular inspections of equipment, like cherry picker-style trucks, are also essential to identify any potential hazards and prevent accidents.
In the aftermath of such incidents, investigations are typically conducted to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences. It is important for regulatory bodies and workplace safety organizations to collaborate with industry experts to analyze these incidents and develop improved safety guidelines. Sharing the findings of these investigations can help raise awareness and foster a culture of safety within the construction industry.
As the investigation into this incident continues, it is imperative that the injured worker receives the necessary support and medical care. Additionally, the incident serves as a reminder for all workers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety measures in their respective workplaces.
This developing news story will be closely monitored for any updates. Stay tuned to reliable news sources for the latest information on this incident at Assembly Row in Somerville.
