A worker for Culy Contracting Inc. fell into a manhole space last week while at a job site in Franklin, Ohio, and had to be taken to the local hospital where he was treated for injuries, according to reports.
WHIO.com first reported around 4 p.m. on Monday, March 9, that fire and rescue crews had been dispatched to the scene where the worker — who fell approximately 8 feet into the open space — “appeared pale and unconscious when he was brought out of the manhole.”
“These (types of work-related accidents involving a fall into a manhole) are pretty rare, thankfully,” Franklin Fire Chief Jonathan Westendorf told WHIO.com. “Even a fall from just 8 feet can be pretty damaging to the human body.”
Westendorf and his crew were out inspecting the sewer system and were already in the vicinity where the accident had occurred. The location on West Bryant Avenue was shut down to traffic, and an area around a second manhole site farther down the street was blocked off, while OSHA and local officials investigated.
The injured worker reportedly said he was feeling ill prior to the fall.
Based in Winchester, Indiana, Culy Contracting specializes in the water and sewer construction industry in addition to manhole and sewer rehabilitation.
Here are some general tips for situational awareness on the job site:
- Be alert for deviations from standard procedures.
- Watch for changes in the performance of other team members.
- Be proactive; provide information in advance.
- Identify problems in a timely manner.
- Show you are aware of what’s going on around you.
- Communicate effectively.
- Keep abreast of the mission status.
- Continually assess and reassess the situation.
- Ensure that all expectations are shared for complete awareness by the whole team.
