Workplace injuries cause dairy worker’s death

The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health has launched an investigation into a recent incident that caused the death of a worker. According to authorities, firefighters from Cal Fire and Riverside County responded to Cottonwood Dairy after receiving a call about severe workplace injuries suffered by an employee. They received the emergency call shortly before 10:45 a.m. on a recent Thursday.

First responders arrived at the scene to find a worker who had suffered critical injuries. Sadly, there was nothing they could do to save the worker’s life. Upon their arrival at the scene, the victim’s heart had stopped, and their report indicates that the injured worker was in full arrest. Few details were reported, except that some farm equipment crushed the worker.

A Cal/OSHA spokesperson says the agency’s investigators will determine the circumstances that caused the worker’s death. They will also examine the dairy’s compliance with prescribed safety protocols. Employers are responsible for the health and safety of employees, and violations can lead to stiff fines. However, regardless of the findings of the investigation, the surviving family members of the deceased worker can proceed with death benefits claims.

They will likely be eligible for benefits through the workers’ compensation insurance program of the state. When lives are lost due to fatal workplace injuries, the benefits typically include compensation to cover end-of-life expenses. Furthermore, a financial package to cover lost wages may be enclosed to assist the surviving family members with day-to-day costs of living and financial obligations such as rent or mortgage payments. An experienced California workers’ compensation attorney can provide valuable support and guidance.