Fatal Maryland workplace injuries and survivor benefits

Workplace accidents can happen at any time while one is working. Most Maryland employers make it a top priority to keep their employees safe while they are working on the job. Guidelines, policies and trainings are put into place to help meet the standards set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Even with the best placed policies, highest standards and relentless training, workplace injuries still occur.

OSHA has opened up an investigation after a man was killed while on the job. The 55-year-old male was killed when granite slabs fell on top of him. The stones crushed him while he was working at a stone distribution center in another state.

The investigation led by OSHA could take up to six months before a final verdict is rendered. At that time, any fines, if necessary, will be handed out. The company that the employee worked for has no prior OSHA history with workplace injuries, accidents or deaths.

When workplace injuries occur, the Maryland workers’ compensation insurance program provides benefits to help victims and their immediate families. Financial compensation received may be used to help cover some of the revenue lost during the period that the victim was unable to work. Should a worker be fatally injured, workers’ compensation provides survivor benefits to a surviving spouse and dependent minor children. An experienced attorney can help victims and their families understand the steps to filing for the benefits available under the program and assist with an appeal of any denials of benefits.

Source: bradenton.com, “OSHA investigating death of worker crushed by stone slabs”, Oct. 5, 2017