The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is investigating the death of a subcontractor who was working at the Torrance Refinery. Reportedly, the incident occurred on a recent Thursday afternoon in North Torrance on a tank farm where the worker was repairing a tank. An incident report stated that the worker was in his 40s.
Reportedly, this man was involved in a struck-by accident, which is one of the most frequent causes of occupational fatalities in San Diego and across the state. The report indicates that the worker was inside the tank when he was struck by a heavy object. The object that fell on him was not named, but it happened while the worker was jacking the supporting leg of a floating roof.
A spokesperson says the rescue workers had no problem removing the man from the tank, and specialized equipment was not required. However, when Torrance firefighters got him out, he was experiencing full cardiac arrest. Rescuers administered advanced life support before rushing him to the hospital. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries, and his death was pronounced upon his arrival at the hospital.
Losing a loved one who suffered fatal workplace injuries in San Diego is naturally traumatizing for the surviving family members. At this challenging time, they might also struggle to cope with the financial consequences. Not only will there be an unanticipated lack of income, but also the costs of a funeral and burial. They can secure the services of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can help them with the navigation of claims for survivors’ benefits that typically cover those costs.