A U.S. Department of Labor investigation has revealed that an Alabama electrical contractor, Dexter Fortson Associates Inc., could have prevented the electrocution of a 44-year-old foreman during storm recovery efforts in Coaling by implementing essential safety measures. The incident occurred while the foreman was part of a three-person crew working to restore power to natural gas pumps.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) discovered that the foreman suffered fatal electrocution from voltage in energized overhead power lines while attempting to replace a broken switch. Inspectors found that the switch was energized at the time of the incident.
"Electrical work is inherently dangerous, and industry employers must ensure basic safety standards are met to prevent a needless tragedy like this," stated OSHA Area Director Joel Batiz in Birmingham, Alabama. "Now family, friends and co-workers are left to grieve this terrible loss."
OSHA's investigation identified several failures on the part of Dexter Fortson Associates Inc., including allowing expired electrical protective equipment, neglecting worker training on hazard recognition, failing to supervise workers adequately, and not conducting necessary inspections. Additionally, live-line tools were used without being removed from service every two years as required, and workers were allowed to operate too close to energized switches without proper de-energization.
The company also failed to inspect worksites for potential hazards before employees conducted repairs on overhead power lines, resulting in an "other than serious" violation.
As a result of these findings, OSHA issued seven serious violations and one other than serious violation against Dexter Fortson Associates Inc., proposing penalties totaling $84,789.
Dexter Fortson Associates Inc., founded in 1982 and based in Bessemer, serves utility, manufacturing, and coal mining industries with services including power system design and installation. The company now has 15 business days from receiving its citations to comply with OSHA's findings or contest them before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
