FACEValue: Worker dies after being pinned by truck axle

Case report: #13KY041
Issued by: Kentucky Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation Program
Date of incident: Sept. 19, 2013

A 58-year-old heavy equipment mechanic died while replacing an air bag on a tri-axle dump truck. On the day of the incident, the victim – who had more than 40 years of experience in the industry – was under the truck and axle, which was resting on a hydraulic floor jack. While the victim was under the axle, he unintentionally placed his hand on the jack, causing the floor jack to lower and pin him between the axle and the floor. A co-worker found the victim. First aid and CPR were administered, and the victim was transported to the hospital. He died two days later from compression asphyxia and blunt trauma to the ribs.

To help prevent similar occurrences:

• Ensure employees using jacks crib, block or otherwise secure the loadsimmediately after they have been raised. Hydraulic jacks will leak off, and workers must never get under any type of vehicle that is being held up only by hydraulics.
• Conduct heavy equipment safety training on the correct procedures for air bag installation.
• Conduct annual worker safety training for all employees exposed to hazards in the workplace.