On August 28th, 2021, 23-year-old Vincent Lucchese was fatally electrocuted while working at a commercial recycling plant in Staten Island. The incident is currently being investigated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
At approximately 1:40 p.m. on Friday, Lucchese, a Staten Island native, was working at the Faztec Industries recycling company located at 200 Bloomfield Avenue in Staten Island when he suffered a severe shock from a steel framed rock crushing machine, according to officials from the Department of Buildings (DOB). Initial investigations confirmed he was shocked after operating machinery.
Lucchese was quickly taken to Staten Island University Hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead. Our hearts are with his loved ones during this very difficult time.
This accident was initially investigated by DOB inspectors who issued a violation for a failure to maintain electrical equipment at the recycling site. A spokesperson from the DOB made it clear that this was not a construction accident, stating “this was not a construction worker, and this fatality was not related to construction.” The DOB have since referred the case to OSHA for further investigation.
Electricity is known to be an incredibly dangerous hazard in the workplace. Electric shocks can have devastating effects on the body, from serious burns to cardiac arrest, and even death, depending on the level of electrical exposure. For this reason, it is crucial that all job sites adhere to electrical codes and standards that are put in place at both the state and federal levels to protect workers who are regularly exposed to hazards. Failure to comply with these standards can result in a potentially fatal electrical accident.
All workers must be made aware of the hazards that exist on their job site. If an electrical hazard is present and a worker is unaware, there is a dangerous risk of electrocution. All hazards should be clearly marked for laborers to see. The maintenance of electrical equipment is equally as important. Regular use of equipment can eventually lead to wear and tear that can include short circuits and exposed wires. These hazards can be very dangerous to workers. Additional safety precautions that laborers can take include:
- Use double-insulated tools and equipment
- Inspect all electrical equipment before use
- Follow instructions for use of tools and equipment
- Place warnings on defective tools
- De-energize and ground power lines when working near them
If an electrical accident does occur, it is important to know that the injuries sustained in an electrocution may be worse than they appear. Accident victims can suffer internal bleeding as well as damaged tissues, nerves, and muscles. Those who suffer an electric shock should receive medical attention as soon as possible.
If you or someone you know has suffered an electric shock as a result of the negligence of another party, you may be able to obtain legal compensation for your injuries and losses. The electrocution lawyers at Block O’Toole & Murphy understand the risks and consequences associated with electrical work. Our attorneys have experience representing victims of electrocution accidents. Notable results for electrical accident victims include:
- $5,000,000 settlement for a worker who suffered an electric shock while completing excavation work at a construction site
- $2,600,000 settlement for an electrician who was shocked twice by power lines that should have been switched off
To receive a free, no-obligation legal consultation from one of our experienced attorneys, please call 212-736-5300 or fill out our contact form online.